Tel: 419.435.8282
213 South Main Street, Fostoria, Ohio
FAQ
Do I need a permit for a shed?
Yes. A shed no matter what size or if it is pre-built, a permit is required to ensure that setback requirement are met.
Do I need a permit for a swimming pool or hot tub?
A permit is required for any pool with a maximum depth of more than 18 inches.
Am I allowed to park my car in the yard?
No. Vehicles must be parked legally on the street or on an improved driveway. Parking on the boulevard is also not allowed (no wheels in the yard).
Can I keep my trash container or bags on the boulevard?
No. Containers used for trash and garbage bags may only be set out on the boulevard every seven days for collection.
Do I need a permit to run a business from my home?
Yes. A Home Occupation Permit is required for use of a dwelling or accessory building for gainful employment involving the manufacture, provision, or sale of goods or services
How do I report a possible zoning violation?
A violation may be reported by calling the office at 419-435-8243 or by email, zoning@fostoriaohio.gov or in person.
Do I have to give my name in order to report a possible zoning violation?
No. A call can be made confidentially, but if the information given is not complete or more information is needed the property cannot be inspected.
How high can the grass grow before it is in violation of the zoning code?
Grass or weeds cannot exceed 12 inches. Failure to keep the grass or weeds cut is a minor misdemeanor punishable by a mandatory fine of not less than $50.00.
Where can I build a fence on my residential property?
Fences can be constructed 6 inches from the neighboring property line and 5 feet from an alley right of way. This does not assume that the sidewalk or curb is where your property line starts. To accurately determine where your property line is property pins need to be located or the lot needs to be surveyed.
Where can I park my boat or RV?
In residential zoning districts, boats, RV's and utility trailers are required to be parked behind the front building line of the your house. This requirement applies on both lot frontages of a corner lot. Boats, RV’s, and utility trailers can be parked or stored no closer than five feet to any lot line and more than ten feet from the main structure and parked on an improved surface such as asphalt, concrete, crushed stone or pavers (a permit is required).Type your paragraph here.
Danielle Penwell
Code Enforcement Officer
City of Fostoria
(419) 435-8243
VISIONS AND GROWTH
The zoning office has the responsibility for providing support for the Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals.
Responsible functions also include issuing a variety of permits, such as zoning, sidewalk, driveway, fence, and swimming pools. The department is also responsible for the inspection and enforcement of all zoning laws including Property Maintenance.
Code enforcement for multi-family and commercial projects is administered through Wood County Building Inspection. Wood County Building Inspection may be contacted at
419-354-9190 phone
419-354-9190 inspections
Zoning Complaint Form and Survey
The Compliance/Zoning department has created a downloadable complaint form for the citizens of Fostoria. This form is for any zoning violations citizens may wish to report and have our zoning department inspect. The form consists of questions regarding contact information and the violation(s) in question. Below is a PDF document of the zoning complaint form. To fill out this form you may print out a copy of the PDF and bring it into the zoning department office located on the first floor of the Municipal Building.
ZONING COMPLAINT FORM (DOCX)
Another way to submit a zoning compliant is through our link to a survey asking the same questions as the downloadable form will. This link takes you to an online form that is easy to fill out and submit. This option allows complaint forms to be submitted from home. This link is located below and in our Frequently Requested Forms box above.
REGISTRATION OF CONTRACTORS
1107.04 REGISTRATION OF CONTRACTORS.
(a) Requirements of All Contractors. Any contractor working within the City limits of the City of Fostoria, Ohio must be insured and registered with the City of Fostoria, Ohio Zoning Department and the City of Fostoria, Ohio Finance Department. Applications for registration must be completed and approved prior to any construction commencing which includes a completed income tax questionnaire and proof of current license registration on any vehicles requiring commercial license plates. The fee for such registration is twenty-five dollars ($50.00) for the first calendar year (January 1st - December 31st). The annual renewal is ten dollars ($25.00) if it is paid no later than thirty (30) days from renewal from being sent. If the contractor fails to renew within thirty (30) days, the renewal fee will be twenty-five dollars ($50.00). (Ord. 2022-09. Passed 2-15-22.)
(b) Failure to Obtain a Contractor Registration. Failure to be a registered contractor performing work within the City of Fostoria, Ohio shall be a violation of this Zoning Code and punishable under Section 1107.99.
FAIR HOUSING
The City of Fostoria administrative offices will be available to receive Fair Housing Complaints and Questions Monday - Friday. Once the office receives a complaint that is determined to be a fair housing complaint it will be referred via email to the Toledo Regional Office. All complaints and questions will be documented by the administrative office. Once the referral has been made the City will continue to follow up with the complainant until any issues have been resolved.
Fair Housing Contact:
Joshua Clark
Safety Service Director
The City of Fostoria
213 S. Main St.
Fostoria, Ohio 44830
419-435-2561
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Jeffrey Huber
Compliance/Project Manager
City of Fostoria
(419) 435-9775
ZONING DEPARTMENT
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