Springfield Township Zoning 101:
If a new home or property improvements are in your
future, here are the requirements to obtain a zoning permit from Springfield
Township. In general, zoning permits are required before any structure is built,
erected, enlarged, structurally altered, or placed on a property. Roofing,
windows, doors, siding, interior remodel, electrical and plumbing are some
examples of projects that do not require a permit providing there are no
structural alterations or change in use. If you live in a subdivision with an
active homeowners’ association, it is advisable that you consult with your
association for prior approval of your project before applying for a zoning
permit. Once a zoning permit has been issued, it must be taken to Lucas County
Building Regulations located on McCord Road to obtain a building permit.
New Dwelling - A zoning permit is
required for all new residences erected in the township. A surveyor’s site plan
and a set of building plans must be submitted for the proposed dwelling. The
township requires that this site plan include front (from right-of-way), rear
and side yard setbacks, and the overall lot dimensions. New dwellings not
located in a platted subdivision will have to secure permits from the
Toledo-Lucas County Health Department and Lucas County Engineer’s Office before
a zoning permit can be issued. Also, if multiple lots are involved, they must be
combined into one parcel before construction can begin. The Lucas County
Auditor’s office will combine parcels at no charge. Proof that multiple parcels
have been combined must be presented when permit is applied for.
Pole Barn/Detached Garage - These
structures may be located five feet off rear and side property lines and must be
located at least 15 feet from the initial dwelling. You may not erect a pole
barn or garage before constructing the primary dwelling on any parcel of
property. These structures may not be located in front of any initial dwelling
Again, multiple parcels must be combined before erecting these structures. If
you have a septic system, you must obtain a slip from the Toledo-Lucas County
Health Department, stating that you are not building over your tank or leach
field. A site plan and a set of building plans must also be submitted.
Sheds - Storage sheds and car ports also need a zoning permit. Setback
requirements for rear and side property lines are the same as for pole barns and
detached garages. A surveyor’s site plan and a set of building plans must be
submitted.
Additions -
Additions must adhere to the same side and rear setbacks as the initial
dwelling. Additions include sunrooms, three-season rooms and enclosed patios. A
site plan and a set of building plans must be submitted.
Fence Permits
- Fence permits are required anytime new fencing is erected on a property. When
a section of fence is being replaced in the exact location as the existing
fence, you must call the zoning department for approval before beginning work.
Privacy fencing may not extend past the front of the initial dwelling. Fencing
may be erected in front of the initial dwelling, but may not exceed 42 inches in
height and must conform to right-of-way setbacks. Fencing may be erected
directly on the property line and privacy fencing may face in or out. A
surveyor’s site plan showing property lines and where fencing will be placed is
required.
Pool Permits - Pools, whether they
are in-ground or above ground, require permits. In-ground pools also require
fencing - a minimum of four feet in height. Pools must be a minimum of 10 feet
off rear and side property lines. There is no setback requirement between the
pool and rear of the initial dwelling. Above-ground pools that have locking or
removable ladders do not require a fence. A site plan showing property lines,
dimensions of pool and setbacks is required.
Deck Permits - Deck permits are
required anytime new decks are built on a property. When a section of deck is
being replaced in the exact location as the existing deck, you must call the
zoning department for approval before beginning work. A site plan showing
property lines and where deck will be placed is required.
To apply for any permit, bring all required documentation to the township
offices located at 7617 Angola Road. You will be required to fill out a zoning
application and pay the appropriate fee at the time of application. Permits are
usually issued within two business days of application. To speed this process
along, you may print any of our zoning forms as well as a complete copy of the
township’s zoning resolution by clicking
here.
For sign permits, commercial applications, or any questions you may have, please
contact the zoning offices at 419-865-0239, Ext. 19, or via e-mail
jbarnes@springfieldtownship.net.

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