Yes, you need a permit for kitchen remodeling in Summit County, Ohio if your project involves structural changes, plumbing or electrical modifications, HVAC updates, or the installation of kitchen hoods. While cosmetic upgrades like painting or replacing cabinet doors may not require a permit, most functional or layout-altering renovations do fall under Summit County’s permit requirements.

When Is a Permit Required?

Kitchen remodeling permits are primarily about ensuring safety, code compliance, and legal accountability. In Summit County, Ohio, permits are required for most remodeling activities that affect the structural, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems of a home. If your project includes moving walls, rerouting plumbing, updating wiring, or installing a ventilation system, you must secure the appropriate permits before beginning any work.

Cosmetic vs. Functional Changes

Not all updates require a permit. Cosmetic-only work such as repainting walls, changing cabinet hardware, or replacing countertops without touching the plumbing or electrical system typically does not require county approval. However, once your project includes anything beyond surface-level upgrades, it likely triggers a permitting requirement.

Examples of permit-free work:

• Painting walls or ceilings
  
• Replacing doors on existing cabinets
  
• Installing new flooring (assuming no electrical or plumbing is affected)
  

Examples of work requiring permits:

• Moving or removing interior walls
  
• Replacing or adding plumbing fixtures such as sinks and dishwashers
  
• Adding new lighting circuits or outlets
  
• Installing a range hood with ventilation ductwork
  

Permit Types for Kitchen Remodels

Depending on your remodeling scope, you may need to apply for multiple permits. Each permit corresponds to a specific system or type of work within your kitchen remodel.

Building Permit

A building permit is necessary for any changes involving the home’s structure. This includes altering wall layouts, expanding the kitchen, or modifying load-bearing supports. Even relocating a window or doorway within the kitchen may require this type of permit.

Electrical Permit

Electrical permits are required for any work involving wiring, circuits, lighting, or the installation of appliances that connect to the electrical system. If you’re adding under-cabinet lighting, running new wires, or upgrading your electrical panel to accommodate additional kitchen appliances, this permit is essential.

Plumbing Permit

If your remodel involves moving a sink, adding a pot filler, rerouting drain lines, or connecting new appliances like dishwashers and refrigerators with water lines, you’ll need a plumbing permit. Changing from a single sink to a double-bowl sink, for example, would require a review of the new plumbing layout.

Mechanical Permit

Mechanical permits apply to installations or changes related to HVAC or ventilation systems. If you’re installing or replacing a kitchen hood, adding exhaust fans, or modifying existing ductwork, you must secure a mechanical permit. Kitchen hoods, especially those requiring fire suppression systems, are a specific focus of Summit County’s permitting process.

Application Process

Contact the Department

Before beginning your remodel, contact the Summit County Department of Building Standards to confirm which permits you need based on your specific project plans. They can walk you through the application process and let you know if your scope requires plan reviews or inspections.

Phone: 330-630-7280
Address: 1030 E. Tallmadge Ave., Akron, OH 44310

Submit Applications and Plans

For each permit, you’ll need to complete a corresponding application and may be required to provide plans or sketches detailing the work. Plans should show the kitchen layout, electrical and plumbing locations, and any new structural modifications.

Forms can be downloaded from the Summit County Building Standards website or picked up in person. If you’re working with a licensed contractor, they may handle this step on your behalf.

Schedule Required Inspections

After permits are approved and work begins, inspections will be required at key stages of construction. This ensures that the remodel complies with local building and safety codes.

Typical inspection stages include:

• Rough-in inspections for framing, plumbing, and electrical work before drywall is installed
  
• Final inspections once all fixtures, appliances, and finishes are complete
  

Work cannot legally be concealed or completed before it has passed the necessary inspections.

Permit Fees

Summit County charges permit fees based on project type and scope. In most cases, you’ll pay a non-refundable base application fee plus an additional fee based on the square footage of the work area.

For kitchen remodeling projects classified as alterations or accessory buildings, Summit County charges the following:

Permit Fees

Summit County charges permit fees based on project type and scope. In most cases, you’ll pay a non-refundable base application fee plus an additional fee based on the square footage of the work area.

Permit Type	Application Fee	Fee Per 100 sq.ft.
Building – Alterations	$60	$2
Mechanical – Alterations	$60	$2
Plumbing – Alterations	$60	$2

If your kitchen remodel involves 300 square feet, for example, the total building permit cost would be $60 + ($2 x 3) = $66. If you’re pulling additional plumbing and mechanical permits, those would each be calculated similarly.

It’s important to keep track of these costs so that you can factor them into your budget and understand the full cost of kitchen remodeling in Ohio, as well as your potential ROI.

Other Considerations

Zoning and HOA Restrictions

Before submitting your permit application, it’s important to verify that your project complies with township zoning ordinances and any applicable homeowner association rules. Zoning regulations may affect layout changes, room expansions, and the use of certain materials or systems.

Well and Septic System Reviews

If your home uses a private well or septic system and your kitchen remodel affects water usage or drainage, you may also need clearance from Summit County Public Health. This is especially true if you’re adding a second sink, a prep station with water access, or a larger dishwasher.

Permit Exemptions and Grey Areas

There are some remodeling scenarios where permit requirements aren’t completely clear-cut. For example, installing a new countertop might not require a permit, but if that installation includes a sink swap that affects plumbing, you’ll need to apply. Similarly, changing cabinet layouts might not trigger permitting — unless electrical outlets or lighting need to be moved as a result.

In these situations, it’s always safer to consult with the county. Working without required permits can result in serious consequences:

• Fines and penalties
  
• Orders to halt work
  
• Legal liability if damage or injury occurs
  
• Problems with homeowners insurance coverage
  
• Delays or failures during real estate transactions
  

Summary Checklist

• Contact the Summit County Department of Building Standards before starting any kitchen remodel
  
• Determine which permits you need – building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical
  
• Prepare drawings or plans for submission with your permit applications
  
• Pay required fees – including base and square footage-based fees
  
• Schedule and pass inspections at designated construction milestones
  
• Confirm local zoning and HOA regulations before proceeding
  
• Get additional approvals if the remodel affects a well or septic system
  

Final Thoughts

Summit County, Ohio requires permits for most kitchen remodeling projects that involve more than just cosmetic changes. From electrical upgrades to plumbing reconfigurations and ventilation installations, permits are essential to ensure safety, code compliance, and a smooth remodeling process. Always consult the Department of Building Standards before beginning work and follow the outlined procedures to avoid costly delays or legal issues. For questions, application help, or scheduling, contact the department directly at 330-630-7280.

Or, skip the hassle and let Element handle it all for you. Our expert remodeling team will manage every aspect of your kitchen renovation – from design and construction to permitting and inspections. Contact Element today to start your kitchen transformation with confidence.