Planning & Development Information and Frequently Asked Questions

What is a permit?

A permit is a license allowing you or a contractor to perform work on your house or building. It is issued to the owner or the owner’s agent, such as the contractor, sub-contractor or other person responsible for the work being done, and it identifies the required inspections. Permitting requirements are governed by City ordinances, zoning regulations, and various state building code requirements. Some work may not require zoning or building permits but, nonetheless, must still comply with the applicable codes.

How do I apply for a permit online?

To apply for a permit please use our online 24/7 Access Kettering tool, log-in to your account and click on Building Permit.

How long does it take to receive a permit?

Our goal is to have all reviews complete within two weeks. Simple permits that do not require drawings review are usually issued within a few days. If changes or additional information is required the process may take longer.

How and when do I pay for a permit?

The fees are outlined in the Fee Schedule. Some permits may require an up front plan review fee with the balance due when the permit is issued. You may pay by cash, check, Visa or MasterCard.

When can I start work?

You may begin work immediately after the permit is issued and fees are paid. Emergency repair/replacement (i.e., water heater, furnace) can proceed as long as the application is submitted immediately.

How do I know what inspections are required?

The required inspections are listed on the permit. See Inspections for details.

How long is the permit valid, and when is it closed?

The permit is valid for six months from the time of issuance or the date of the last approved inspection, whichever is most recent. Expired permits require renewal or re-issuance with additional fees. The permit is closed when the final inspection is completed and the work is approved for compliance with the applicable codes. The inspectors will leave an inspection tag at each inspection indicating the results of the inspection. Multiple failed inspections will be subject re-inspection fees.

Link to Permit Forms and Fees

How do I see the Property Maintenance Code?

2019 New Property Maintenance Code (complete)

How do I share a property maintenance concern?

Maintaining the integrity of our neighborhoods is a priority for the City of Kettering. We appreciate your assistance when a property in your neighborhood needs to be addressed. Please submit a property maintenance concern online or call the Property Maintenance Hotline at 937-296-3286.

How long does it take to resolve a property maintenance complaint?

Each circumstance is different. When a notice of violation is issued, it must include a compliance deadline. If compliance is not achieved by that time, the inspector may take the next step, which may involve prosecution through the municipal court system.

What happens when a property owner does not comply with an order to address property maintenance violations?

The City tries to be flexible and work with people who are making a good faith attempt at addressing violations. On a case-by-case basis, compliance deadlines may be extended to accommodate those trying to address the violations. If a property owner fails to address the violations within the given timeframe, the owner will be prosecuted.

What can I do if I disagree with the inspector’s decision about violations occurring on my property?

Anyone who has received a notice of violation has the option to appeal that decision. The City has a Property Maintenance Appeals Board who will hear their case and decide if the argument presented is valid.

Can a City property maintenance inspector enter onto my property with or without my permission?

Code inspectors may enter privately-owned property when the owner gives their consent. An inspector may also conduct an inspection from a location where they are legally entitled to be such as the adjacent public sidewalk, streets and alleys. An inspector may enter onto private property to deliver notices or orders in connection to the enforcement of City regulations. Inspectors may not enter the interior of a property without the owner’s consent.

Are there restrictions on the parking of recreational vehicles on residential property?

Yes. The regulations can be found in Section 1145.13 of the Kettering Zoning Code. Recreational vehicles may be parked on residential property under the following conditions:

Vehicles greater than 8 feet in height must be stored inside of a building.
Vehicles less than 8 feet :
- Only in rear or side yards.
- Taller than 6′ must be setback 6 feet from the property line.
- Less than 6′ must be setback 3 feet from the property line
All vehicles shall be screened from view of neighboring property and all public rights-of-way by a continuous 8′ high evergreen hedge or a 6′ high privacy fence.
Vehicles 30 feet or longer are only permitted in a vehicle storage facility or indoor parking locations.
All vehicles permanently stored on the property must be parked on an impervious parking pad (paved/concreted surface).

How can the City address vacant properties in my neighborhood?

If there are property maintenance violations at a vacant property, the City will go through the regular notification process whereby the legal owner is provided notice of the violation and given a date where compliance must be reached.

What are grass cutting requirements?

Weeds and grass can be no higher than 8” in height. Violations should be reported.

Are there restrictions on rental properties in the City of Kettering?

Rental properties must adhere to the same codes and standards as any other property in the City of Kettering. Rental properties located within the City of Kettering must be registered with Montgomery County through the County Auditor’s Office in downtown Dayton. To obtain registration forms or for further information, contact the Auditor’s Office at 937-225-4326.