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Building & Zoning Dept. FAQ

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1. Do I need a permit for my project?

Please click here for specific instructions on obtaining permits or applications for your project. 

2. How do I schedule an inspection?

It is the property owner's responsibility to call for inspections. Please click here for more information.

3. How do I open a business in the City of Harrison?

To open for business in an existing building, apply for a Zoning and Use Approval permit. The cost for this permit is $125. Click here for application.

If your business is in the Downtown Redevelopment District (DRD), your application will be reviewed by the City of Harrison Planning Commission, which meets on the second Tuesday of each month. The cost for this permit is $125. Click here for application.

If you would like to construct a new building for your business, please call (513) 202-8461 to schedule a meeting with the Economic Development, Building and Zoning Department.

4. Where can I park my boat or camper over the winter?

A maximum of one recreational vehicle or trailer, not to exceed 24 ft., may be stored behind the front setback of the home, provided it is driven and parked on a hard, paved surface. Driving or parking on the grass is never permitted. (1147.14). Recreational vehicles may be parked at homes from April 1 through Oct. 31. in driveways or the street for 72 hours only during this period for loading, unloading, cleaning, maintenance, etc. 

5. Can my vehicle be parked in front of my house between the sidewalk and the street if it is paved?

No. Parking anywhere on the lawn, even on pavement between the sidewalk and street is prohibited. Prohibited parking includes on sidewalks, curbs and paved berms. Blocking the sidewalk is also prohibited. (351.14) (1147.14) 

6. Can I park my car that is not in working order or in disrepair on my property?

 Any vehicle that is unlicensed or inoperable cannot be parked or stored on any property unless kept in an enclosed structure. (302.8) (1147.14) 

7. Can I work on my car in my driveway or yard?

At no time shall a vehicle be in a state of disassembly or disrepair while parked at a home. Any repair work being done on a vehicle must be done in an enclosed structure that is approved for that purpose. General cleaning or washing in your driveway is permitted. (302.8). 

8. What can I store in my yard or on my porch?

The exterior of any property must be maintained in a clean, safe and sanitary condition which includes the being free of the storage of junk, junk motor vehicles, disabled machinery or equipment, vehicle or machinery parts, rags, or any other discarded objects or debris. (1147.25). Fireplaces/pits, firewood, grills, trampolines, play toys, athletic equipment, goals (except basketball), and indoor furniture may not be stored on front porches or in the front or side yards of any property. (1147.07). 

9. Where and how can I store my garbage/trash cans?

Rubbish and garbage must be kept in closed containers/garbage cans with lids. Residential trash containers must be stored in garages. They may be stored in rear yards, or at the side of houses only if appropriate screening/fencing is provided. Additionally, yard tools, equipment, fire pits, grills, and firewood may not be stored in the front yards, but only in side yards if appropriate screening/fencing is provided. (308.1) (308.2.2). Homeowners erecting fences for screening garbage cans, fire wood, etc., must first obtain a permit – the permit fee for these fences will be waived until December 31, 2019. 

10. Can I have portable basketball goals in my front yard?

Basketball backstops, goals, or other athletic equipment or devices are allowed in the driveway of a property but are not permitted in the public rights-of-way, encroaching onto, over or obstructing a public roadway or pedestrian walkway.  (1147.08)  Basketball hoops may not hang over the street because of potential conflict with fire trucks, ambulances, delivery trucks or other large vehicles. 

11. What is the maximum height my grass or weeds can get before I have to mow or cut?

Ten (10) inches is the maximum height that grass or weeds can grow before cutting. (909.01) 

12. Can I burn garbage or debris in my yard?

Fires used for waste disposal are prohibited. (308) 

13. What kind of permit do I need when making improvements to my house or yard?

Pools, sheds, fences and patios require a zoning permit from the Building and Zoning Department (HCZR 1175.02). 

Decks, porches, awnings and any additions to your house also require a building permit from the Building and Zoning Department (HCZR 1175.10). Swimming pools also require a building permit and must maintain a ten-foot setback around the pool. (HCZR 1147.32) (IPMC 303.1-303.2) 

14. Can I have a gravel driveway?

Existing gravel driveways installed before 2009 must be maintained and free of weeds and grass. (1159.09D) New driveways or driveway additions must be concrete or blacktop. (IPMC 302.3-302.4). 

15. What do I do about a dead or dying tree on my property?

Dead or dying trees must be cut to allow access to public utilities, pedestrian access, vehicular access or traffic hazard. (HCZR 1167.09) 

16. Are there rules regulating the appearance or condition of a house, shed or fence, etc.?

Painted exterior surfaces must be kept from peeling, flaking and chipping. Siding must be kept free from rust and corrosion. Oxidation stains must be removed from siding. (IPMC 304.2) Deteriorating surfaces must be replaced. 

17. Can I turn my detached garage into a small apartment or living space?

Accessory buildings such as garages, sheds, carriage houses, etc. may not be used for dwelling purposes. (1147.08)