Frequently Asked Questions

Permit Hours and Times to Call for Inspections:

Monday - Friday
8:30 a.m. - Noon and 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

While vinyl/synthetic siding is an alternative to painting your home, you should know that damaged wood siding and its underlying structure, while hidden, could continue to rot from hidden moisture. Also, you may want to be aware that the historic character and significance of your home could be reduced with synthetic siding.

Each home contributes to the overall charm and historic character of our City's neighborhoods. The original wood siding and carpentry details of your home are authentic and unique. Vinyl should be thoughtfully and carefully applied to protect as many of the details that contribute to the historic character of a home as possible.

Only a Building Permit is required as long as your home has clapboard siding and no windows or doors are to be removed or added; otherwise, an appearance before the Architectural Board of Review (ABR) would be required. For details view the Architectural Board of Review Rules of Policy and Procedures (PDF).

The following must be submitted:

• At least one close-up photograph of the existing siding. If more than one type of siding is present (clapboard, wood shingles, stucco), please submit a close-up photo of each type of material
• A brochure from the siding manufacturer, including details of the siding
• Clear photos, using a 35 millimeter (mm) camera or equal, of all sides of your home (no Polaroids please)
• A measurement of the height of the existing clapboard or shingle
• A measurement of the height of the proposed synthetic siding

Please note, all contractors must be registered with the Building Department.

We strongly recommend that you do not cover over doors and windows with siding. However, if you choose to pursue this option, you must obtain the approval of the Architectural Board of Review, view the Architectural Board of Review Rules of Policy and Procedures (PDF). For more information, call the Division of Building at 216-291-4900.

Yes, you should be aware of the following:

• Jumping (siding over existing window and door casings) is not permitted.
• Siding shall closely match the original siding in placement, size, proportion and general appearance.
• Window and door trim, if covered with vinyl trim, shall closely match the original wood casing in appearance.
• Siding shall not be applied over brick, stone, stucco or other masonry surfaces.
• Siding shall not be grained to resemble wood (real wood siding does not have a raised wood grain.
• Siding shall be installed in such as manner as to minimize damage to the historic siding beneath.

Contact the Building Department at 216-291-4900 for more information.

Building permits are required for the following:

• To demolish, alter, or make major repairs to any existing building structure, or any portion of that structure.
• To build any new structure/addition. (Plans for new structures or exterior design changes must be approved by the Architectural Board of Review before a permit can be issued.) New roof (only if structural work is involved) coverings, window replacements, new siding (except for small areas of replacement), decks, new steps (or rebuilding steps) all require permits.
• To do any electrical (other than minor violation corrections), plumbing, heating, air conditioning work.
• To do any concrete or asphalt work involving replacement or asphalt resurfacing, or any paving work (brick walks, etc.).

A Stop-Work Order or Violation Notice will be issued, fees will double and a court summons may be issued for non-compliance or repeat offenders.

Whoever does the work obtains the permit. If a contractor is being hired, they need to be registered.

Yes! Permit(s) must be posted during the period of construction.

Yes. Either you or your contractor should call 216-291-4900, Option 1 to arrange for rough-in and final inspections.