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Ohio, Wood County Remodeler Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

Wood County Building & Safety Division

The Wood County Building Inspection Department is responsible for administering and enforcing building codes for residential and commercial construction within its jurisdiction. This includes new construction, additions, and remodeling projects. They adopt and enforce the 2024 Ohio Building Code (OBC) for commercial work and the 2019 Residential Code of Ohio for one, two, and three-family dwellings for residential work. The department covers Wood, Hancock, and Henry Counties for commercial construction, and Wood County for residential construction.

Permits are required for any construction that affects the health, safety, and welfare of citizens, including new construction, additions, and remodeling. The process involves submitting applications, plans, and fees, followed by plan reviews and inspections.

The Wood County Building Inspection Department is located at One Courthouse Sq. (3rd Floor of Office Bldg), Bowling Green, OH 43402. Their office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 3:30 pm.

Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas

In Wood County, the Planning Commissions are designated by Ohio Revised Code Chapter 711 as the county agency responsible for reviewing, approving, and setting standards for all subdivisions in unincorporated areas.

The Wood County Subdivision Regulations, last amended on January 18, 2018, set forth uniform standards for all subdivisions, covering aspects like road design, easements, open space, and housing density. These regulations also apply to parcel splits within unincorporated areas.

Specific Permit Triggers for Demolition Work During a Remodel

A demolition permit is required for the demolition of an existing structure in Wood County. The Wood County Health Department also requires a Property Improvement Permit (PIP)/Demolition Permit for properties serviced by a well and/or septic system. This permit ensures that any proposed construction or remodeling does not infringe on isolation distance requirements and that proper well and/or septic abandonment is performed before demolition.

You cannot obtain a demolition permit from the Wood County Building Inspection Department until a PIP/Demolition permit has been issued by the Wood County Health Department.

Partial demolition involving the removal of structural elements (walls, roof sections, floors) typically requires a building permit, and structural plans may be needed to show how the remaining structure will be supported.

Permit Requirements and Definitions for Altering or Converting Non-Living Spaces

A building permit is required to convert attics, basements, or garages into habitable living space. Depending on the scope of work, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical permits may also be necessary.

Existing non-living spaces may not meet current building code requirements for finished spaces, such as ceiling heights, windows, and insulation, which could make conversion difficult or expensive.

It is recommended to consult with the Wood County Building Inspection Department early in the planning process to understand zoning and building requirements.

Resources to Learn More

Note: The following state-wide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Ohio, including Wood County.

Ohio Remodeler Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

Ohio Building Codes for Remodelers and Residential Renovations

Ohio's building codes for remodelers and residential renovations are primarily governed by the Ohio Board of Building Standards (BBS), which operates under the Ohio Department of Commerce. The state has adopted updated versions of the International Codes (I-Codes) published by the International Code Council (ICC), with specific Ohio amendments.

1. Specific State Statutes and Codes Adopted

As of March 1, 2024, Ohio has adopted the 2021 International Codes, including:

2. Primary State Board or Agencies

The Ohio Board of Building Standards (BBS) is the main state entity responsible for developing, adopting, and administering the Ohio Building Code. The BBS is a section of the Ohio Department of Commerce. While the BBS sets the standards, the enforcement of these codes is typically delegated to local building departments, which must be certified by the BBS. The Ohio Building Code Compliance Division, also within the Ohio Department of Commerce, provides oversight and support to these local departments.

3. Classification of Remodels and Demolition Guidelines

Ohio's building codes generally distinguish between cosmetic remodels and structural alterations. The Ohio Existing Building Code (OEBC) provides a framework for addressing alterations, changes of occupancy, and additions to existing buildings, offering flexibility in achieving compliance.

When a renovation involves the removal of any portion of a structure, demolition guidelines and permits may apply. Generally, a demolition permit is required for the removal of any part of a structure, with some exceptions for minor porch removals that do not affect the main structure's integrity. For complete building demolitions, specific application forms and construction documents are required. Partial building demolitions or interior demolitions are typically considered alteration projects and are handled under the standard building permit application process. Demolition projects must also comply with regulations regarding pedestrian and property protection, utility disconnections, and notification to agencies like the Ohio EPA Division of Air Pollution.

Resources to Learn More

Select a City in Wood County

If your project is located within incorporated city limits, you will likely need to follow municipal ordinances rather than county rules. Select your city below to view local regulations.

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