Village of Yellow Springs, Ohio

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a Permit? The Village requires a Zoning Permit for most projects. The type of Zoning Permit and level of review depends on the specifics of your project. If you are installing a structure, temporary or permanent, a Building Permit may also be required. Click here for more details on when you need a permit and what type(s) you need.  

I need a building inspection, who do I call? Call NIC at 937-433-4642. We contract with NIC to conduct all Village Building Inspections. 

I submitted a building permit, how long does it take? The review time depends on the complexity and type of project. It also depends on the quality of the submitted documents. Ensure you submit all the required information up front. This makes the review much quicker. For complete applications, of minor to average complexity, you should expect a response within 5-7 business days. Commercial plans typically take longer, 7-10 business days. Please call NIC to check the status of a building permit at 937-433-4642.

Who can submit residential building plans? There are no license requirements for residential plans, however, the plans are required to meet the prescriptive code requirements (Residential Code of Ohio 2019). Structurally, residential plans can be sealed by an Ohio registered architect or engineer and not meet the prescriptive requirements, as the design professional is taking responsibility of the structural design.  

Do I need a permit to install/replace/repair my fence? A brand new fence and complete replacement requires a Fence Permit. For repairs, if the height, location, and type of fence is not going to change, this may not require a permit.  However, we highly recommend you verify with our office first, at permits@yso.com, to confirm that you may proceed without a permit.

When is my lodging tax due? This is applicable for all short term rentals in the Village. Also known as Transient Guest Lodging or Airbnb, VRBO, etc. The lodging tax is due twice a year, every year you are operating, by April 15th and October 15th. For the Lodging Tax form and more details on the lodging tax click here.

I am putting up a temporary tent do I need a permit? 

How do I identify invasive plants and noxious weeds? Visit the Ohio Invasive Plants Council's website for great photos and more information on prohibited plants and weeds.

What are setbacks and how do I measure them?  For a detailed explanation on setback requirements, and how to make sure you’re proposed plan is in compliance, click here.

What is a “Conditional Use Hearing”? It is a public meeting held in front of the Planning Commission in which the general public may attend and make comment on your application. Click here for a detailed explanation on the Conditional Use process, and what you can expect if you apply for a Conditional Use.

What are “Zoning Districts”, and how to I find out what zone I’m in?  Every property within the Village limits has a Zone District it is located in. Each Zoning District has different allowed uses and different standards for development. Here is a map of all the zones in the Village limits. You can also try out the Greene County GIS mapping program that is available to the public. It includes Village Zone Districts, school districts, voting precincts, ownership, and more.