Frequently Asked Questions

A zoning certificate is typically required for:

• New Buildings
• Accessory uses (i.e., fence, deck, shed, etc.)
• Any alterations of the footprint of a structure (i.e., additions) 
• Demolition
• Use & Compliance  
• Signage

If you have questions regarding the process to obtain a zoning certificate, please call the Planning and Zoning Department at 330-633-0090 or contact them by

Accessory structures, whether a shed, detached garage or similar, are regulated in size by the accumulative measurement of all accessory structures on your lot. The size is limited, depending on your lot size and house size. For lot sizes larger than or equal to 1.0 acre, the maximum lot coverage of all accessory structures is 2,500 square feet. For lot sizes smaller than 1.0 acre, the maximum lot coverage of all accessory structures shall not exceed 50 percent of the total area of the side and rear yards, provided that, in residential districts, the total floor area does not exceed a maximum of 2,500 square feet. In addition, accessory uses and structures shall not exceed 60 percent of the gross floor area (GFA) of the principal use.

Any accessory structure not exceeding 200 square feet requires (only) a zoning certificate. To obtain proper approval, you will need to submit a Zoning Certificate Application with necessary documents.

Small accessory structures such as doghouses, benches, garden decorations, barbeque equipment, etc. are exempt from these regulations provided they do not have a footprint that exceeds 50 square feet.

In general it takes 5-14 working days for applications to be reviewed and approved at a staff level. A more detailed review or the submittal of an incomplete application may can extend the review time necessary.

Portable or temporary pools with a maximum width of 12 feet and which is less than 100 square feet in area shall only be permitted in the residential zoning districts and shall comply with all other requirements for private swimming pools in Section 1104.08 U of the Zoning Code.

A Zoning Certificate is required for any pool with a depth of 24" or above.

These Zoning Certificates are only required one time as long as the pool and the fence go in the same location every year and all regulations are followed.

All pools, no matter the size, must abide by the setbacks of the property.

These requirements may appear to be extreme when installing a temporary pool, but HUNDREDS of needless deaths occur each year from swimming pool accidents.

The property owner is responsible for knowing the locations of their property lines.

If you cannot locate your property pins, you will need to hire a licensed surveyor to locate your pins which delineate property boundaries.

The city does not offer this service.

The zoning map of the city can be used to locate the property and in most cases you can determine the zoning directly from the map. If, however, you are unable to determine the zoning you can call the Planning and Zoning Department at 330-633-0090 with the address and we will assist you.

For more information, review the city of Tallmadge

First, a Certificate of Zoning Compliance for the proposed use must be approved prior to conducting business on the premises.

Next, a Building Permit for Occupancy must also be approved. Contact Summit County Department of Building Standards. 

Refer to the New Business/Tenant Use & Compliance Packet for a step-by-step guide to the process.

Yes, even if your new sign will be built with the same material and dimensions.

Ground mounted solar systems require a zoning permit and must comply with the accessory structure setbacks applicable to the zoning district. For roof installations – flush mounted systems (e.g. panels mounted on a pitched roof) do not require a zoning permit however, a building permit may be required. Contact Summit County Department of Building Standards for more information.

Yes. You may contact us anonymously but your zoning complaint will not be regarded as founded in nature unless it is verified by the Code Enforcement Official.  We will accept your anonymous report and it will be reviewed. A file will only be opened if the complaint is independently confirmed by the Code Enforcement Official.

No. This is not a zoning issue. Boundary disputes are personal legal matters and are not within the jurisdiction of the municipality (Note: Unless a municipal boundary is the subject of the problem). You should consult an attorney or your title company to assist you.

No. This is not a zoning issue. You should consult an attorney as this is a private legal dispute and the municipality has no control or jurisdiction.