To further our objective of streamlining the approval process, we've created this step-by-step guide to take you seamlessly through the process. Use the links to the right to learn what you need to do at a specific step in the process or navigate through the process step-by-step by following the instructions below.
If you need further help or instruction, feel free to contact the Chief Building Official.
ECOBA provides plan approval and inspection services for all buildings and structures within the scope of the Ohio Building Code. Detached one, two, or three family dwellings that are non-transient and not connected to commercial use do not fall within our jurisdiction but are required to be constructed in compliance with the current residential code of Ohio. Please contact your local city, village or township officials to determine if a residential zoning permit is necessary.
Generally speaking, approval is required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or portion thereof, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing system, or other building service equipment, or piping system. Approvals are not generally required in the case of ordinary maintenance.
All Commercial Structures
New Buildings
Additions or Alterations
Change of Use
Residential Greater than 3-Family Units or 3 Stories
Other Structures
Industrialized Units
Storage Tanks
Fences Greater than 7 Feet High
Retaining Walls Greater than 4 Feet High
Special Structures
Tents and Air Supported Membrane Structures
Temporary Structures
Pedestrian Walkways and Tunnels
Awnings and Canopies
Signs and Marquees
Towers
Swimming Pools
Plumbing, Mechanical, Electrical or Fire Protection Systems
1 - 3 Family Residential, Less Than 4 Stories and Detached
1 Story Detached Accessory Structures, Less than 120 Square Feet
Agricultural Use Buildings (as defined by OBC)
Sidewalks and Driveways
(unless 30" above adjacent grade or part of an accessible route)
Electrical, Less than 25V or 50W
Piping, Less than 50' in Length
Portable HVAC
Process Equipment
Other Exemptions Listed in OBC 102.10
Minor Repairs per OBC 102.10.2
Routine Maintenance and Repairs per OBC 3405.1
Once you have determined if your project requires plan approval, check our jurisdictions section to determine if your project falls under the jurisdiction of ECOBA.
Download our Plan Approval Application Instructions. This document will guide you through the process. Then, download, print, and complete the Application for Plan Approval.
Construction Documents shall be prepared by a registered design professional and bear an official seal, signature and date. An online Box folder will be provided to upload electronic PDF plans, specifications, shop drawings, equipment cut sheets and calculations along with the completed application for plan approval and fee worksheet.
All fees must be paid prior to download of approved plans and inspections. Payment Terms: Cash, Check (payable to: East Central Ohio Building Authority), MasterCard, Visa and American Express.
Contact Mary Rinella for document submissions. Phone: (339) 364-3164 x609 or Email: mrinella@ecohba.com
East Central Ohio Building Authority
339 Oxford Street
Dover, Ohio 44622
Upon approval of plans, the Building Official shall endorse or stamp plans as approved. A Certificate of Plan Approval will be issued to the owner along with two sets of construction documents.
The Certificate must be posted on the job site with one set of construction documents at all times during construction.
Inspections must be scheduled with ECOBA at least one day prior to the inspection date. To schedule an inspection, use our convenient online form or contact the Inspector. The approved drawings must be posted on the job site, lot lines clearly marked and site access shall be provided prior to the inspection.
Building & Mechanical Inspector
P: (330) 364-3164 Ext. 604
C: (330) 401-8528
E: rthompson@ecohba.com
Bob joined ECOBA in August 2015 after completing Code Council Academy and BBS (Board of Building Standards) certification (#5011). Previously Bob worked over 30 years for MKC Architects in New Philadelphia as Contract Administrator. His certifications include: CSI: CDT (Construction Drawing Technologist) and CCCA (Certified Construction Contract Administrator). Prior to employment at MKC, Bob gained his status as Journeyman Carpenter in the Carpenters Union, Marietta, Ohio. Bob is a member of FBOA and OBOA.
Electrical Safety Inspector #5382
P: (330) 364-3164 Ext. 607
C: (330) 418-8318
E: tstephens@ecohba.com
Tom is ECOBA’s full time Electrical Safety Inspector. He is a 1974 graduate of Indian Valley North and a member of IBEW540 from 1978 to present. Tom competed ALBAT Program-Journeyman Lineman, JATC Program-Journeyman Wireman, and State License Fire Alarm Installer certification. He is an active member of IAEI, OBOA and FBOA.
A re-inspection fee shall be assessed when a requestor misses a scheduled inspection, the site is not accessible, or work is incomplete as determined by the building official.
Send a copy of the completed inspection log to the building official to obtain the Certificate of Occupancy nmontan@ecohba.com or fax: (330) 364-4690.
Once all inspections have been obtained a final Certificate of Occupancy will be issued.
Certificates of Occupancy can be obtained for existing buildings upon written request from the owner. Provided there are no violations of law or orders of the building official pending, and it has been established after inspection and investigation that the alleged occupancy of the building or structure has heretofore existed, the building official shall issue a Certificate of Occupancy.
Questions?
