What Needs a Residential Permit in Licking County

This page summarizes common projects that typically require a residential building permit under the 2019 Residential Code of Ohio (RCO). When in doubt, or to know for sure, contact the Building Code Department before starting work. (Last updated 2-4-26)

Important: This is only a general guide for homeowners, designers, builders, and contractors to use. It is impossible to list every possible type of project or scope of work that may or may not need a permit. In general, if your project affects structure, life safety, egress, fire safety, HVAC systems, or electrical systems, a permit and inspection is usually required. Please note that there may be other approvals needed for your overall project, such as zoning, health department, HOA, local Engineer Department, Storm Water, etc. It is up to the owner to contact all these entities to determine if their approval is necessary. Finally, just because local zoning approval may not be required, a permit through our office may still be necessary (and vice versa).

Projects That Commonly Require a Residential Permit

The following are common examples of work that typically requires a permit and inspections.

New construction, additions & alterations

• New one-, two- and three-family dwellings
• Additions, including room additions, attached garages, and sunrooms
• Converting an unfinished basement or attic to a finished/habitable space or the creation of new habitable space where it did not exist before
• Converting a garage into living space
• Creating a new sleeping room
• Detached garages, pole barns, and sheds that are over 200 square feet in area
• Decks that meet any one of the following conditions:
  • Attached to a house or another deck that is attached to a house
  • Is over 200 square feet in area
  • The top of the decking is more than 30" above grade
  • Serves the main entry door of the house

Structural alterations

• Removal or opening a portion of load-bearing walls
• Replacing or altering existing structural members (beams, joists, headers, load-bearing wall framing, rafters)
• Removal or rebuilding of footings and foundation walls (note that foundation wall stabilizers using carbon fiber straps or steel braces do not require a permit)
• Reconstruction of staircases or ramps when the walking surface is located more than 30" above grade

Building envelope & safety items

• Cutting new doors or windows into exterior walls
• Fireplaces, wood stoves, chimneys, or venting changes
• Heating or cooling areas that were not conditioned before

Tip: If it changes structure, adds living space, alters egress, or modifies building systems, a permit is likely required.

HVAC & Electrical Permits

• New or replacement of furnaces, air conditioners, boilers, or heat pumps
• New ductwork or major system alterations that affect the original system design
• Service upgrades, electrical panel replacements, or meter changes
• New circuits for pools, spas, or EV chargers
• Standby generator installations
• Roof or ground-mounted solar panels

Tip: Check with your local zoning inspector regarding requirements for generator and solar panel placement on a property.

In-Ground and Above Ground Pools

• In-ground pools require a permit for the new electrical circuit serving pool equipment and the grounding/bonding of all equipment and metal components of the pool
• Above-ground pools require a permit for the new electrical circuit for the pool equipment
• Wood-framed decks surrounding the pool that meet the requirements listed above require permits and inspections

Tip: Check with your local zoning inspector regarding requirements for safety features like fences, gates, lockable ladders, etc.

Work That Is Often Exempt From a Building Permit

• Painting, wallpapering, flooring, and similar finish work
• Cabinets, countertops, and non-structural trim
• Kitchen or bath remodeling that does not include any structural load-bearing alterations or addition of new electrical branch circuits (contact the Licking County Health Department regarding any changes to plumbing systems)
• Removal of non-load-bearing interior walls
• Minor repairs that do not affect structure or systems
• Replacing electrical fixtures
• Fences (typically regulated by zoning)
• Residential towers and antennas
• Siding replacement
• Shingle replacement
• Swings, playground equipment, and tree houses/play structures that do not include livable space

Accessory structures

Detached residential accessory structures that are 200 square feet or less in area do not require building permits, provided they do not contain any living or habitable space. While a building permit is not required, always check with your local zoning inspector to see if zoning permits are required.

Tip: Even if a building permit is not required, all work performed must still comply with the Residential Code of Ohio.

Contact & Next Steps

For confirmation on your specific project, contact the Licking County Building Code Department before starting work.

• Phone: (740) 349-6671
• Email: [email protected]

Reference: 2019 Residential Code of Ohio (RCO). This page is informational and not a substitute for official code enforcement guidance.