Get or Track a Building Permit

A permit authorizes a contractor or homeowner to begin work described in the project plans and description. The permitting process begins with the submission of an application and any accompanying plans that may be required for approval. Once the application is submitted, the plans are routed to various departments for review, depending upon the nature of the work. After each required review has been approved the permit is issued and work can begin. After a record is created, application status can be tracked through our Citizen Access Portal. 

It is important to note that acquiring the appropriate permits for the proposed project, in some instances, is not the only requirement.

Expired Permits

According to state and city code, after a permit is issued, work must begin within 1 year or the permit may be expired. Once work begins, there cannot be delays in progress for more than 6 months. All related building, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing permits are considered a single project for purposes of permit expiration. Limited permit extensions are allowed for under the building code. For questions about your permit expiring or to request an extension, please contact us at ExpiredPermits@columbus.gov or 614-645-8563. 

BZS Inspections