HOME IMPROVEMENTS ANYONE?

Make Sure the Job is Done Right by Getting a Permit Before Getting Started

Summer is the season homeowners often set aside for updates to their property. Many projects require a little legwork before a trip to Lowes or Home Depot or a call to a contractor.

West Chester Township’s residential Zoning Certificate application process is simple, free and provides some assurances that your project is being done right. In addition to the Township Zoning Certificate, many construction projects require permits from Butler County.

“Your property is likely your biggest investment, so you want to make sure your project meets code and complies with both HOA and Township zoning regulations,” said Bryan Hellard, one of West Chester Township’s property advisors.

Projects making impactful changes to the exterior of your property – fences, sheds, pools, decks, porches or additions – require a Zoning Certificate and may require County permits.

Projects that alter the interior of your home – updates to bathrooms and kitchens, moving walls, finishing basements – may also require a Zoning Certificate and County permits.

Painting your homes exterior, landscape work, routine home maintenance or adding a playset typically do not require permits.

There are some alterations, like rooftop solar installations or a new roof however, that require County permits but do not need a Zoning Certificate. West Chester will provide an exemption letter for projects of this type. When in doubt, contact the Community Development Department for more information.

A qualified, licensed contractor should understand the requirements of permitting and be prepared to support the property owner through the process. Whether a do-it-yourselfer or hiring a contractor, however, the property owner will be responsible for the outcome of the project.

“By following the required process of permitting, there will be overview that helps hold the contractor/ homeowner responsible for doing the job right and within zoning regulations,” Bryan said. “Not using the required permitting process may lead to shortcuts that impact the quality of the outcome, as well as the long-term value of your home.”

Many West Chester neighborhoods are guided by a home owners association (HOA) with restrictions for property alterations that are more stringent than the Township’s regulation. If your neighborhood has an HOA, check their covenants/rules first before getting too far ahead in your planning.

Some HOAs only allow a certain type of fence, or no fences at all. Some don’t allow sheds at all and some will only allow them up to a certain size or made in a certain way. Moving forward on your project without your HOA’s written approval could be costly later.

If the HOA (when applicable) is good with the project, the next step is West Chester Community Development.

The residential Zoning Certificate process is available online at westchesteroh.org/permits, but property advisors are always happy to walk residents through the process. Filing for a Zoning Certificate requires drawings of the project and completion of a basic application, but there is no cost.

The best place to start – after your HOA – is West Chester Community Development, 513-777-4214 or www.westchesteroh.org.