Canton, OH Building Safety: Building Inspections (2026)

Section 1301.10(a) directs the Chief Building Official, upon finding a structure, appurtenance or part of a building to be defective, in a dangerous condition, or constructed in violation of the Building Code, to deliver written instructions to the owner, lessee or occupant to remove or remedy the problem within a reasonable time set by the official. Section 1301.10(b) gives the Chief Building Official separate authority to order, in writing, the suspension of work related to any violation arising from defective or illegal work, or where continuing a building operation is contrary to the public welfare, until the violation is remedied.

This inspection authority connects to the Building Department's right of entry under Section 1301.09, which lets inspectors enter a structure, dwelling or premises at reasonable times with the owner's or tenant's consent, or without consent during an actual or apparent emergency; if consent is refused, Section 1301.20 lets the inspector seek an administrative inspection warrant from a court of record under Ohio Revised Code Section 2933.21(F). Interfering with the Chief Building Official or Building Department staff performing these duties is separately barred by Section 1301.21.

Violations of the Building Code generally, including noncompliance with an inspection order, are enforced under Section 1301.99, which fines violators up to $100.00 per day, with each day of continued violation counted as a separate offense.