Plan Review, Permits and Inspections

Contact Us

Building and Zoning Services
111 North Front Street
Columbus, OH 43215   

Office:  (614) 645-7433   

Weekdays: 9:00AM to 4:00PM 
Please note that the Zoning Review room will be closed the second Tuesday of the month from 9 -10:30 AM for staff training.

Additional Contacts
Directions to our office
Parking Map for BZS

Citizen Access Portal

2023 Observed Holidays

Monday, January 2
New Year's Day (Observed)
Monday, January 16
Martin Luther King Jr Day
Monday, February 20
Presidents’ Day
Monday, May 29
Memorial Day
Monday, June 19
Juneteenth (Observed)
Tuesday, July 4
Independence Day
Monday, September 4
Labor Day
Friday, November 10
Veterans Day (Observed)
Thursday, November 23
Thanksgiving Day
Monday, December 25
Christmas Day

Critical Observation Report

Certain structures within the downtown area are subject to reporting requirements meant to enhance the level of protection to pedestrian traffic. A Critical Observation Report (COR) is required every 5 years for downtown buildings that are:

1) 20 years old or older, and
2) Located within 10 feet of a public right-of-way, pedestrian walkway or plaza

Buildings 3 stories or taller require that the observation report be conducted by, or under the direct supervision of, an architect or engineer who specializes in structural engineering.

The COR should document in detail the findings such that a review of successive reports will clearly demonstrate changes in the condition of exterior walls of the building and any adjoining structures. Please refer to Columbus City Code section 4109.073 for more information regarding this requirement.

Critical Observation Representative
Email:  [email protected]      
Office: 614-645-6910 

Significant Codes
Critical Observation Report - This form can be accessed by clicking here.
City Council Code and Charter: 4109.073 / 4109.075 / 4109.077
Unsafe Building Conditions link