1) Do I need a permit for a temporary shed, or a shed on skids?

Yes; Any structure built or placed on a buildable lot in the City of Bowling Green requires a permit.  There is a $20.00 one-time application fee.

2) Does my contractor need to be licensed?

There is no requirement for a license in order to obtain a Zoning permit, however; (A) Any work done in the City Right-of-Way requires a permit through the Public Works Department (ADD LINK); (B) The Wood County Building Inspector (ADD LINK) is the Building Inspector for the City of Bowling Green and may require a licensed contractor.

3) Do I need a permit for an inflatable swimming pool?

The City defines a swimming pool as any structure designed to contain at least 18 inches of water.  The Any such structure whether permanent or temporary requires a permit.

4) I am replacing an existing fence, do I need a permit?

Yes; Beginning March 1st, 2006 the City policy for fences requires a new permit.

5) How close to the property line can I put my fence?

A fence can be built on the property line, however; it is your responsibility to ensure the location of your property line.  The City will not get involved in diputes concerning property line locations.

6) Is there a copy of a previous site plan for my property in your office?

There may be copies of previous site plans in the files of the Planning Department, however; we do not guarantee the accuracy of the drawings.  Depending on the desired work, you may want to have your property surveyed by a Licensed Surveyor to ensure the proper location of the work being done.

7) How close can my patio/driveway/sidewalk be to my property line?

Flat work as described in this question can be located as close as three feet (3') to the property line.

8) Are there certain things that I am restricted from building on my property in my subdivision?

Some subdivisions have covenants or restrictions that are recorded in the Recorder's Office located in the Wood County Court House.  The City does not enforce those items in the permit process.

9) Do I hae different rules since I live on a corner lot?

A corner lot has two (2) front yards, which does place more of a burden on them than on a non-corner lot.

10) I am replacing the sign face at my business location ~ no increase in the sign dimensions ~ Do I need a new permit?

Yes; Beginning March 1st, 2006 the City policy for signs requires a new permit if the sign face is being altered either by size or by advertisement.

11) How many signs are allowed for a Commercial Business?

Each Commercial Business is permitted three (3) signs with an application fess of $25.00

12) How soon after an application has been submitted can I begin work?

The application is required to be signed by four (4) different Departments, once all of the Departments have signed an application signatures the permit will be mailed to your address or you may come in a pick it up.  At that time you are permitted to begin the work.  In the event that the work requires a permit from the Wood County Building Inspector, you will be required to give them an approved copy of your Zoning Application Permit.

13) Who do I make the check out to? Does the Planning Departnment accept credit cards?

All checks submitted to the Planning Department need to be made out to "The City of Bowling Green".  The Planning Department will accept cash or check only.

14) Can I park my car in my yard?

Parking in the Ciy of Bowling green is permitted on a hard, dustless surface only, with the exception of a pre-existing (prior to 1975) gravel drive. 

15) I live in an area zoned R-3, Multi-Family ~ How many people can live in my house?

In any single-family dwelling, in the City of Bowling Green, you are only permitted to have 3 non-related individuals ~ unless there is a pre-existing non-conforming use on record - you can check with our office or the BGSU Student Legal Services. 

16) Do I need a permit to have a garage sale?





17) Is it a law that I have to have the address displayed on my home or business?