Code Compliance & Enforcement
Code Compliance and Enforcement is responsible for ensuring compliance with a broad range of public health and safety regulations including zoning, health, parking, public nuisance, illegal signs, and other City codes. This information is intended to allow residents and business owners to participate in maintaining the high quality of the City’s neighborhood and commercial districts.
The goal of the City’s compliance measures is to ensure the overall quality of life in the community by making residential and/or corporate property owners aware of potential code violations. For more information or suggestions about Code Compliance and Enforcement, please call 614.410.4600.
Code Enforcement Process
Enforcement
Enforcement of Dublin’s codes is taken very seriously. Enforcement officers regularly travel city streets observing properties for code compliance. Once a potential violation is either brought to the City’s attention, or an enforcement official observes a violation, a procedure is begun that is intended to provide a fair and equitable enforcement process.
Complaint
When a complaint is received, either by phone, in-person, written or otherwise, the reported violation is investigated before any official action is taken; if no violation is observed no further action is taken. If a complaint is received by phone or email, the Code Enforcement office will forward confirmation of receipt of the complaint. Violations may also be discovered by the City.
Violation Notice
The person and/or property owner responsible for the violation is notified by letter, issued a citation, or notified by phone. As a first step, the property owner responsible for a code violation is given an opportunity to correct the situation. Most notification letters give ten days for compliance. More time can be provided when there are unusual circumstances that make compliance more difficult or time consuming. Code Enforcement team members are available to discuss and explain the specifics of any violation, including any extensions of time.
How does the City know when a violation exists? A possible violation can be received either by phone, in person, or in writing (letter or email), or City inspectors may, in the course of their duties, observe a potential violation. Once received, the reported violation is investigated before any official action is taken; if no actual violation is observed no further action is taken.
How am I notified of a violation? The person and/or property owner responsible for the violation is notified by letter, issued a citation, or notified by phone.
What if I have questions about a violation? You may call Code Enforcement at the City of Dublin to discuss and explain the specifics of any violation.
How many days do I have to correct a violation? In most cases once a violation notice is received the property owner has ten days to correct the violation. Code Enforcement may grant additional time if unusual circumstances require.
Are re-inspections done to see if the property has complied? Yes, usually within five business days following the date of expected compliance.
When is legal action taken? If after re-inspection the violation has not been corrected, legal action may be initiated and the complaint processed by the City Prosecutor and Mayor’s Court.
Do I have other options if I cannot or do not wish to comply? If the violation is related to the City’s Zoning Code, you would have the option of appealing the violation to the Board of Zoning Appeals, or requesting a variance from the requirement.
Legal Action
Within five days following the date of expected compliance, Code Enforcement will re-inspect the property. If the violation has not been corrected, legal action may be initiated. Once legal action is initiated, the complaint is processed by the City Prosecutor through the Mayor’s Court.
Zoning Compliance Information
Zoning Compliance Letter
The role of the Zoning Compliance function for the City is to work with property owners to ensure that they are made aware of any applicable City Code issues, and to devise an appropriate resolution of any potential violations. This includes inspections for landscape requirements, compliance with previous zoning approvals, and other related code issues. The City’s Planning Technician is also responsible for issuing Zoning Compliance letters when needed.
To apply for a Zoning Compliance Letter please register and apply using the ACA Portal website (link here: https://aca-prod.accela.com/dublinoh/default.aspx). The Zoning Compliance Letter application will be under the ‘Planning,’ tab and under ‘Administrative Applications’ dropdown on the Record Type selection page. For a step by step guide on how to register and apply, please use the ACA Portal Guide: Accela Citizens Access Portal Guide. The applicant will be notified by email upon completion of the letter, all documents will be posted to the Attachments tab on the ACA Portal.
For additional information or questions, please contact: Planning Division at 614.410.4600.
*NOTE: Letters may take up to 10 business days to be completed. Please plan accordingly.
Tree Removal Permit
Site visits to the property by City representatives are essential to process this application. The Owner, by completing the form hereby authorizes City representatives to visit, photograph, take measurements, or other necessary activities on the property described in the application.
Historic District Development Code: Appendix F
Appendix F was adopted by City Council, effective March 24, 2021. Appendix F outlines all properties located within the boundaries of Historic Dublin. The properties, including all primary structures, outbuildings, and stone walls within the boundaries require approval by the Architectural Review Board (ARB) for certain activities related to renovation, rehabilitation, new construction, or demolition as provided in the Historic District Zoning Regulations.
Landscape Requirement Guide
Dublin’s high quality of life is promoted through minimum landscape requirements on commercial developments. Landscaping is not an afterthought of the development process. A fair amount of planning and design considerations help shape the arrangement of the building, parking lots and service areas.
The examples found in this pamphlet are intended to help communicate the landscape requirements for a typical office development. This manual may also be a useful guide for designers, property owners and contractors charged with the planning, installation or maintenance of landscaping within the City of Dublin.
Planting specifications in this manual represent the accepted industry standards, as of 2003. Please contact the Landscape Contractors Association (1.800.825.5062) for the current Landscape Specification Guidelines. The International Society of Arboriculture also publishes acceptable planting specifications (1.217.355.9411). It is recommended that tree care professionals such as nursery technicians or arborists install and maintain plants within the landscape. It should be noted that all plants required under the Dublin Code must be properly installed and remain healthy in perpetuity. Please refer to the planting detail and guidelines for more information.
Peddlers/Solicitors Policy
Did you know the City of Dublin has a “No peddlers/solicitors” ordinance? The ordinance is managed and enforced through Dublin’s Code Enforcement office.
The City’s ordinance states:
- No person shall engage in the business or activity of peddler or solicitor or acting on behalf of a 501C charitable organization in the City of Dublin without first obtaining a license through the Code Enforcement Office.
- No person acting as a canvasser to disseminate a lawful message, (political or religious) and not soliciting funds or donations is required to register with the City of Dublin.
- No person or organization shall peddle, solicit or conduct market research in the City of Dublin prior to 9 a.m. or after 9 p.m. or on any Sunday or Holiday.
Companies such as roofing or cable providers seeking to solicit business for their products or services must obtain a license through the City’s Code Enforcement office.
Who may solicit without a license? Religious organizations and political campaigns that are providing information only and are not soliciting donations.
Door/window clings in white/clear are available for residents at City Hall. Call 614.410.4400 or stop by City Hall, 5555 Perimeter Drive.
The City of Dublin has a “no peddlers/solicitors” ordinance, which prohibits peddling or solicitation on behalf of a business or charitable organization without first obtaining a license through Code Enforcement.
Questions or concerns? Call Greg Jones, Code Enforcement Supervisor, at 614.410.4647.
Current Peddler/Solicitor Permit Holders
Victory SDA Church | Expires May 17, 2025
- Angelina Chal de la Cruz
- Wayne Rolle
- Daniella Estefany
- Lidianny Castillo
- Nathaniel Griffiths
altafiber | Expires June 30, 2025
- Kelly Blanchett
- Jimmy Campbell
- Jacob Cliff
- Josh Correll
- Allen Dickerson
- Joe Gates
- Randy Hopkins
- Hayden Jutze
- Nicole Kirchgessner
- Heather Murphy
- Andy Nelson
- Mike O’Brien
- Donald Overcash
- David Parsons
- Matt Rice
- Mike Silvati
- Login Stewart
- Justin Terino
Group Fundraising |
- Girl Scouts Troop #7257 – Expires 3/31/2025
- Youth Achievement of America – Expires 3/24/2025
- Dublin Music Boosters – Expires 7/31/2025
- Dublin Coffman Girls’ Volleyball Booster Club – Expires 6/10/2025
Solicitors
Your permit must be displayed at all times while soliciting in the City of Dublin. The Dublin Police Department will be given a copy of each solicitor badge and the expiration date for each permit.
Obtaining a Permit to Solicit Door to Door
- Complete an online application. Instructions can be found here.
- Upload BCI background check
- Pay $110.00 by cash, check or credit card
Once you have submitted your application, filled in all the requested personal information, uploaded your BCI background check (valid for one year from date listed on your background check) driver’s license, and paid your fee, our Code Enforcement Office will receive and review your application.
Permits are valid for 30 days. Each person soliciting must have a badge. Hours for permitted solicitation are Monday through Saturday, excluding holidays, from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
All Solicitors Must Honor “No Peddlers or Solicitors Invited” Stickers
Use Common Sense
- Do not ring a doorbell of a house that has posted a sign that says, “sleeping baby.”
- Do not repeatedly ring a doorbell. There may be a young, sick or elderly person at home alone.
- Do not solicit after dark.
- Do not solicit to children.
- Know that “no” means “no.”
Your badge may be revoked if you are reported.
Homeowners
Approved solicitors are required to prominently display their City of Dublin Peddler/Solicitor Identification Badge.
If someone approaches your home and does not have the official Peddler/Solicitor Identification Badge, you may call the City of Dublin Police non-emergency number (614.889.1112) and report a non-approved solicitor in your neighborhood.
Questions or concerns? Call Greg Jones, Code Enforcement Supervisor, at 614.410.4647.
Zoning Regulations & Deed Restrictions
Zoning Regulations & Deed Restrictions
Both City zoning regulations and private deed restrictions involve rules and regulations associated with property and can be misinterpreted as the same type of regulations. Education is important so that property owners are well informed of the requirements for their community.
Definitions
- Zoning ordinance: a law adopted by the local government to regulate the use of land, including the placement and design of structures, landscaping, and other site features; enforced by the local government with criminal or civil causes of action and subject to constitutional requirements and limitations.
- Deed restriction: a covenant (i.e., a type of agreement), appearing within the chain of title to a property, restricting use or development of that property by current and future owners of the property; enforced by other private individuals via civil causes of action, who are beneficiaries of the restriction within their chain of title.
Zoning Regulations and Deed Restrictions-How are they alike?
- Both zoning regulations and deed restrictions can regulate land uses, site conditions setbacks, height restrictions, lot coverage and other aspects of the built environment.
- They can also regulate what types of accessory uses and structures that are permitted or not permitted including fences, storage structures, recreational or sports courts and other outside amenities.
- These regulations can also regulate permissible and non-permissible animal care including farm animals and domestic pets to ensure compatibility with residential communities.
- Both types of regulations are meant to ensure compatibility of land uses, aesthetic quality and unique and common appearances within communities that creates the general “feel” that a neighborhood would like to achieve.
Education is key. Be that neighbor who knows their community’s restrictions.
- Be familiar with your Deed Restrictions and contact information for your Home Owners Association for questions or concerns. Deed Restrictions are included in all closing documents upon the sale of a property and also are recorded with the local counties’ Recorders Offices. In Dublin that can be Franklin County, Delaware County or Union County depending on the location of the property in question.
- For zoning restrictions, contact the City of Dublin Planning Division at 614.410.4600. Our planning staff can answer any questions that you might have concerning zoning provisions and processes, and contact our Code Enforcement Officers if there are potential compliance issues.
- Most Homeowners Associations have separate approval processes for residential construction so please contact the City of Dublin Planning Division and your local HOA before starting construction projects. City staff does not, and cannot, provide advice as to HOA requirements.
Zoning Regulations and Deed Restrictions-How are they different?
| Zoning | Deed Restrictions | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Generally set forth to protect the health, safety and l welfare of the general public. | Can be more restrictive than zoning regulations and can include any standards that the developer chooses as long as it does not violate other regulations or restrictions (state or federal regulations, such as Ohio’s Planned Community Law or violations of public policy that would make the restriction void). |
| Adoption Process | Zoning regulations are adopted through a public process and final authority for these regulations is City Council. Zoning may change over time. | Deed restrictions are created by the development community and recorded with the County as part of the development process. Deed restrictions run with the land. |
| Compliance | The City administers the Zoning code. As such, the City helps property owners navigate applicable regulations. | Deed restrictions are an agreement between private property owners. As the holder of the deed, it is the property owners’ responsibility to comply. |
| Enforcement | Zoning regulations are adopted through local jurisdictions such as the City of Dublin and are likewise enforceable by the City.
The City’s enforcement of zoning regulations is subject to limitations imposed by the US and Ohio Constitutions, including but not limited to due process, equal protection, and freedom of speech. The City does not administer or enforce deed restrictions. | Deed restrictions are “agreed upon” when private property is purchased and is enforceable by individual property owners. This can require financial resources and personal commitment from property owners to enforce and may result in court proceedings to resolve.
As a general rule, the City does not have standing to pursue enforcement of any deed restriction. |
Short-Term Rentals
As of November 11, 2020, anyone operating a short-term rental in the City of Dublin must follow the City’s short-term rental regulations.
Highlights of the ordinance passed by Dublin City Council on October 12, 2020, include the following:
- All hosts must apply for and receive an annual registration prior to listing a Dublin residence for short-term rental.
- Hosts may rent out a unit for a maximum of two weeks per calendar year; this maximum may be split into up to two increments up to seven days each.
- Hosts must submit a form to the City before each renting period detailing the duration of the rental, number of people staying, number of vehicles and total money charged for the rental.
- Those who conduct short-term rentals and fail to register with the City could face a $250 fine for violating City code on a first offense.
Applications for Annual Registration and Short-term Rental Permits are now open on the Accela Citizen Access portal.
- Account registration is required.
- The annual fee is $225 and is valid through Dec. 31 of the year the permit is approved.
- Initial registration requires the upload of several documents, including:
- Notarized Affidavit of Compliance with applicable rental laws
- Verification of transient rental insurance coverage is also mandatory.
- Two of the following five documents confirming primary residence
- Motor vehicle registration
- Driver’s license
- Tax documents
- Current lease (with permission of the property owner)
- Current utility bill
An approved Short-Term Rental Registration will be assigned a record number for identification, which must be prominently posted along with the property listing on any hosting platform or public advertising medium used for listing the property.
These regulations allow for short-term rentals, such as Airbnb in the City, while maintaining the residential character of Dublin neighborhoods. Columbus, along with several other U.S. cities, have adopted similar ordinances to regulate short-term rentals.
Click here to read the ordinance.
Questions? Please reach out to John Iannucci, Code Enforcement Officer, at jiannucci@dublin.oh.us or by calling 614.410.4604.
Frequently Asked Code Enforcement Questions
How does the City know when a violation exists?
A possible violation can be received either by phone, in person, or in writing (letter or email), or City inspectors may, in the course of their duties, observe a potential violation. Once received, the reported violation is investigated before any official action is taken; if no actual violation is observed no further action is taken.
How am I notified of a violation?
The person and/or property owner responsible for the violation is notified by letter, issued a citation, or notified by phone.
What if I have questions about a violation?
You may call Code Enforcement at the City of Dublin at 614.410.4600 to discuss and explain the specifics of any violation.
Are re-inspections done to see if the property has complied?
Yes, usually within five business days following the date of expected compliance.
When is legal action taken?
If after re-inspection the violation has not been corrected, legal action may be initiated and the complaint processed by the City Prosecutor.
Do I have other options if I cannot or do not wish to comply?
If the violation is related to the City’s Zoning Code, you would have the option of applying to the Board of Zoning Appeals to either; 1) appeal the determination that a violation exists, or 2) request a variance from the requirement.
Public Records Request Overview
In order to support faster response and better tracking of requests, the City of Dublin uses JustFOIA to collect, respond to and manage public information requests.
Why JustFOIA?
JustFOIA is a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) online application that helps streamline the open records request process for the community and improve efficiencies in getting requested information quickly and accurately.
The application lets community members submit requests for all city records, including police reports. Commonly requested information includes accident reports, copies of resolutions and body-camera video.
Mission
We are and always have been a proud local democracy. In our service, we strive to provide the best quality of life and environment in which our residents and businesses can thrive. We seek to ally our proud traditions with the best innovations of the future.
Vision
Dublin, Ohio, is the most sustainable, connected and resilient global city of choice.
Core Values
Integrity, Respect, Communication, Teamwork, Accountability, Positive Attitude & Dedication to Service.
The City of Dublin operates under a set of seven key core values: integrity, respect, communication, teamwork, accountability, positive attitude and dedication to service. Staff members use these seven values as the basis for daily decision-making, including the decisions that go into the budget process.
- Integrity. We are open and honest. We honor our commitments to the community and each other. Our actions are consistent with what we say.
- Respect. We treat our coworkers and members of the community with courtesy and dignity. We embrace diversity and acknowledge the needs, responsibilities and inherent worth of each individual.
- Communication. We maintain an environment in which employees feel free to share ideas and information. We promote open interaction throughout the organization to ensure knowledge and understanding among all employees and our community.
- Teamwork. We create a climate in which all employees work together and support the individual talents and contributions of team members. We celebrate successes and see mistakes as opportunities for growth; we will never willingly let a member of our team fail.
- Accountability. We are responsible to our community and each other for our personal and organizational decisions, actions and performance results. We are committed stewards of our City’s assets and resources.
- Positive Attitude. We focus our efforts on constructive behavior, attitudes and solutions. We promote an environment that people love going to every day – a place where each individual can find a sense of belonging, inspiration, enjoyment and meaning.
- Dedication to Service. We pursue innovation and continuous improvement in all we do. We are committed to efficient, effective and responsive service delivery that makes a difference in the lives of those we serve.
Leadership Philosophy
We are members of an organization that succeeds because of teamwork, dedication, diversity and the innovative spirit of all of our members. Together, we build a culture of trust, service, mutual respect, inclusion and open communication. We hold ourselves mutually accountable to promote and sustain continuous learning and to develop the learning potential that exists in every member of our team.
City Code
The complete Dublin City Code is available online at American Legal City Ordinance website. Information staff at the Dublin branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library are available to help navigate this website.
Revised Charter of Dublin, Ohio
This Revised Charter, as adopted on March 19, 1996, became effective on July 4, 1996.
Zoning Code
The Zoning Code for Dublin is Chapter 153 of the Dublin Code of Ordinances. The Zoning Code sets land development requirements and establishes different uses within individual districts. Zoning regulations address the physical development of a site, such as building height, lot requirements, setbacks from lot lines, minimum numbers of parking spaces, sign types and sizes, and other related regulations.
Jenny Rauch, Director of Planning
Phone:
614.410.4600
Code Enforcement:
614.410.4647
Zoning Compliance:
614.410.4661
Fax:
614.410.4747
Hours:
Monday – Friday
8 am – 5 pm
Brad Fagrell, PE, Director of Building Standards, Chief Building Official
Phone:
Permit Window: 614.410.4670
Review Services: 614.410.4608
Fax:
614.410.4697
Permit Window Hours:
Monday – Friday
8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Inspector Phone Availability:
7:30 a.m. – 3:30 a.m.
Paul Hammersmith, Director of Engineering
Phone:
614.410.4740
Fax:
614.761.6512
Office Hours:
Monday – Friday
8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
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