Madeira City's Building Department inspectors, review plans and oversee construction, alteration, repair, use, occupancy, and maintenance of buildings, structures, and signs. All construction, including new construction, remodeling, additions, fences and walls, signs, swimming pools, exterior HVAC, basketball hoops, tents, accessory buildings and other types of improvements require permits and must be done in accordance with the applicable City of Madeira Ordinances, and the latest edition of the Residential Code of Ohio (RCO) and the State of Ohio Building Code (OBC).

Permits are not required for the following work on residential properties only: 

• replacement windows, (as long as you are not changing the opening)
• siding
• painting
• replacement of walkways around the house
• resurfacing or replacement of driveways (unless they are being expanded or work is being done on the apron)
• or walls under four feet high 

To apply for a buidling permit, fill out the appropriate application below. Zoning and Building code approval are both obtained with one application. However, if the project does not meet zoning, it may have to go before the Planning Commission.

Building and Zoning Permit Application for Residential and Commercial Properties 
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Permits for alterations / repairs, additions, and new construction must have a cost estimate / quote submitted at the time of application in order to process the permit. The following must be submitted with the permit application:

Commercial Permits 

• Demolition Work - must be accompanied by a photograph of the existing structure showing gutters and any other applicable drainage measures taken, as well as, topography of the lot.

• Exterior Work - submit five (5) copies of a site plan and five (5) sets of construction drawings.
• Interior Work - submit four (4) sets of construction drawings.

Residential Permits 

• Demolition Work - must be accompanied by a photograph of the existing structure showing gutters and any other applicable drainage measures taken, as well as, topography of the lot.
• Exterior Work - submit five (2) sets of construction drawings (including site plan).
• Interior Work - submit two (2) sets of construction drawings.

The owner is ultimately responsible for making sure the builder / contractor has obtained all necessary building permits and for calling for building inspections as required. Building inspections are done by the City of Madeira Building Department. Call for inspections 48 hours in advance whenever possible.

Sign Permits

There are separate permit application forms for permanent signs and temporary signs (see below). Permanent signs will be reviewed by the Architectural Review Officer, Zoning Administrator and Commercial Building Inspector. Temporary signs will be reviewed by the City Manager or Assistant to the City Manager. If they do not meet zoning, they have to go before the Planning Commission. For more about signage see the zoning tab on the website.

Permanent Sign Permit Application Form
VIew/Download Form

Temporary Sign Permit Application Form
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