Buildings Menu

Permit Costs

Application Processing Fee

The application processing fee is nonrefundable and is collected when you submit your application and plans.

The permit fee is based on the valuation of the project (as determined by the Department of Buildings & Inspections).

Depending on the type of work you’re doing, you might need to pay additional fees -- such as scanning fees, revision fees, Certificate of Occupancy fees, investigation fees, premium service fees and Certificate of Appropriateness, etc. -- when we issue your permit.

Permit Fee Schedule

Cincinnati Permitting Portal - OPENCINCY

This tool identifies and estimates the permits, licenses, and fees needed to open or expand your business in the City of Cincinnati.  It is also a guide for homeowners, professional contractors, real estate agents, and architects  It provides a tool to explore very preliminary ideas.  Customers have access to the portal 24/7 and the Portal is easy to navigate from your computer, tablet, or smartphone.

OPENCINCY

Technology Surcharge

3% technology surcharge added to all scheduled fees; excluding administrative hearing fees.

Training Surcharge

1% training surcharge added to all scheduled fees; excluding administrative hearing fees.

Planning Surcharge 

5% planning surcharge on all construction, plumbing, and HVAC permits. 

Financial Recovery Fee

1% financial recovery fee added to all scheduled fees; excluding administrative hearing fees.

State Surcharge

You must also pay a state surcharge when we issue your permit:

  • 1-, 2- and 3-family detached dwellings: Additional 1% as required
  • 4+ dwelling units or commercial: Additional 3% as required

Engineering Change Fee

An Engineering Change Application processing fee is non-refundable and collected when you submit an Engineering Change Application and plans.

Then, you'll have to pay an Engineering Change approval and revision fee when the change is approved.

Revision fees to engineering changes do apply.

Payment Methods:

  • Cash
  • Check (for the amount due) - Checks should be made out to The City of Cincinnati
  • Credit Cards
  • Trust account

For your convenience, a trust account can be established to deposit funds against which you can charge your future fee.