FAQs • Kent, OH • CivicEngage

Do I need a bond to register as a contractor?: No. Contractor registration bonds are not required, however, bonds are required for projects that affect the City's right-of-ways, including but not limited to sidewalks, streets, tree lawn areas, and curbs.

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Zoning and Building

1. Do I need a building permit for installing a fence?: You will need a zoning permit but not a building permit. You will need to complete a Zoning Permit Application and provide details of the fence (height, type, and material) as well as a drawing of the fence location. Heather Heckman (heckmanh@kent-ohio.org), Development Planner for the Community Development Department will review your submission for compliance and issue the permit once all requirements have been met.

2. What is the maximum allowable height of a fence?: All fences located in front of the main structure (front yard) can be a maximum of four feet. All fences located behind the front of the main structure can be a maximum of six feet. Houses that are located on corner lots have two front yards and must maintain the four foot maximum on both sides of the house facing a street. Please see KCO 1106.12 for more information and examples.

3. How far from my property line do I need to install my fence?: You will need to ensure that your fence is installed on your property. If you are unsure of the property lines, it is recommended that you obtain a survey. While there isn’t any code regulations stating how far fences are installed from your property line, we remind everyone that both you and your neighbors own the property line and ask that you be respectful of your neighbors.

4. Can the City help resolve property line disputes?: No. The City cannot resolve property lines disputes and recommends seeking legal advice if you cannot work things out with your neighbor.

5. Can I cut branches from a neighbor's tree that overhang onto my property?: You will need to seek legal advice on this matter as the City cannot resolve issues pertaining to property lines.

6. Do I need a permit to install a pre-constructed shed in my yard? (Single Family Residential): For sheds that are 200 square feet or less, you only need a zoning permit. Sheds that are greater than 200 square feet require both a zoning and a building permit. For the zoning permit, you will need to complete a zoning permit application and provide a drawing of the location of the proposed shed noting the distances of the shed to the property lines and also the distance to the main structure. Sheds cannot be located in the front yard. Sheds must be a minimum of 15 feet from the main structure and must maintain the side and rear yard setback requirements for your zoning district. Please contact our Zoning Department for further details. If you also need a building permit, you will need to complete a Residential Building Permit Application and provide detailed construction drawings of the proposed structure. Applications for permits will need to be reviewed by the Community Development Staff for compliance.

7. Do I need a bond to register as a contractor?: No. Contractor registration bonds are not required, however, bonds are required for projects that affect the City's right-of-ways, including but not limited to sidewalks, streets, tree lawn areas, and curbs.

8. Who needs to register as a contractor?: Contractors that are responsible for obtaining permits are required to register. This includes such trades as general contractors, plumbers, electricians, mechanical contractors, state licensed contractors, and others. Sub-contractors who are working under another contractor’s permit such as drywall installers, painters, finish carpenters, etc. are not. If you are unsure, please call. We will be happy to assist you.