Ohio Building Code under ORC Chapter 3781 sets construction-type height limits applying statewide, while local zoning controls additional height restrictions through home rule authority.
ORC Chapter 3781 authorizes the Ohio Board of Building Standards to adopt the Ohio Building Code and Residential Code, which include construction-type-based height limits matching the International Building Code. These structural and fire-safety height tables apply uniformly statewide and cannot be reduced by local building departments. However, local zoning ordinances commonly impose stricter height limits based on district and use, which are valid under Article XVIII home-rule authority. Industrialized units and modular buildings are subject exclusively to state regulation under ORC 3781.06. FAA Part 77 also limits structure heights near airports statewide.
Code violations result in stop-work orders, denial of certificates of occupancy, and per-day fines under local enforcement.
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Lucas County.
See how Sylvania's structure height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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