Building

The City of Canton enforces the most current edition of the 2019 Residential Code of Ohio (RCO) and the 2017 Ohio Building Code (OBC), as adopted by the Ohio Board of Building Standards.

Report An Issue

You can Report an Issue online. There are many types of issues to choose from.

Building Permits

Building permits are required for the construction, erection, or alteration of a building, or any addition thereto, or the equipment and maintenance thereof and when required by the Ohio Building Code, plans shall be prepared in conformity with the Ohio Administrative Code.(Chapter 1303 of the Canton Codified Ordinances).

Briefly, but not all inclusive, building permits are needed before the commencement of work for new and remodeling structural improvements of all:

  • Additions
  • Commercial and residential-homes
  • Decks
  • Fences
  • Garages
  • Roofs
  • Sheds
  • Siding
  • Signs
  • Storage buildings
  • Swimming pools

Fees & Zoning Permits

Fees are required. Zoning permits may apply. If zoning permits apply, a zoning permit must be obtained before a building permit can be issued.

Home Improvement Contractors

Home improvement contractors performing any kind of remodeling work on 1, 2 and 3-family homes must be licensed with the City of Canton Building Department. Salesmen selling remodeling work must also be licensed. Home improvement contractors are not licensed to do plumbing, electric, or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) work. Separate licensing is maintained for plumbing, electric and HVAC. 

General Trades Contractors

General trades contractors performing any kind of remodeling, addition, or new construction work on 4 or more unit apartment buildings or any commercial buildings must be licensed with the City of Canton Building Department. General trades contractors are not licensed to do plumbing, electric, or HVAC work.

Additional Responsibilities

The Building Department is also responsible for inspecting and administering:

  • All demolition permits and licensing demolition contractors (State of Ohio licenses fire suppression contractors)
  • Commercial fire suppression permits
  • Fire alarm permits
  • Standpipe systems permits

For More Information

Information on the fees and specifics on getting building, fire and demolition permits, inspections and becoming a licensed home improvement contractor/salesman or demolition contractor can be obtained by contacting the Building Department via telephone at 330-430-7800.