Once operated by the Hamilton County Zoning Department, Sycamore Township residents voted in November 1998 to establish their own local zoning and administrative procedures, much like that of the Hamilton County Zoning Department. The change would mean that the staff would be making zoning decisions in the Township. This new role for Sycamore Township is beneficial to the residents because we will be able to make our own decisions for our future.

The Planning & Zoning Department works with residents, business owners and developers to ensure that all new construction, all exterior renovations and additions meet the guidelines specified in the Zoning Resolution.  They also review and approve residential, office, commercial and institutional projects, including all signage in the Township.  In addition, the department acts as a liaison to the Board of Zoning Appeals and Zoning Commission boards.  The Department of Planning and Zoning is dedicated to the continuing prosperity of Sycamore Township.  If we can be of assistance to you, please call the office at (513) 792-7250.

An applicant must submit plans to the Township to ensure they meet the communities zoning requirements. Staff looks at such things as parking counts for the permitted use, setback requirements, height limitations, size restrctions, use of a particular zoned area, etc.  These can vary depending on what the applicant is applying for. Once the Township's review is complete, plans are then turned over to the Hamilton County Building Department for structural review, including mechanical, electrical and plumbing.  

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is your turn around time?

     Typically 1-2 days depending on how busy the office may be.

2. What are your fees?

     Please see our fee schedule for your submittal request

3. Do I need a permit with Hamilton County?

     Most all submittals that are reviewd by the Township require a     permit with Hamilton County as well.  The items that do not require a permit inlude storage sheds under square feet and residential fences.

4. Do I need a survey of my property when applying for a permit?

     Typically no.  The office does not require a survey, it is however recommended for your own protection.   

5. How do I obtain a survey of my property?

     There are a few ways in which a property owner can obtain a survey.  The most obvious is to contact a reputable surveyor.  Other ways include the Hamilton County Records office or by contacting your mortgage or title company. 

6. Does the Township have a plat of my property?

     No.

7. What is a site plan? 

    A site plan (or plot plan) is a drawing that shows the property lines and dimensions of the property as well as the locations of any   existing structures on the lot.  On a site plan (or plot plan) the proposed improvemetns are to be shown including the distances from the lot lines and other structures. 

8. What is an elevation?

     An elevation drawing shows the height of the proposed structure. 

9. What do I need to submit in order to obtain a permit?

     RESIDENTIAL

     •Application signed by the property owner

     •Fee (see fee schedule)

     •Three sets of your site plan  

     •Three sets of your elevations

     COMMERCIAL

     •Application signed by the property owner

     •Fee (see fee schedule)

     •Three sets of your site plan or key plan

     •Three sets of your demolition plan

     •Three sets of your elevations                                                

     •A Letter of Intent (this letter must include the name of the business, and what type of business will occupy the space, hours of opperation and any other pertinant information)

10. Does the Township have an inspector that will come out and look over the project once complete?

       Yes.  The Township Inspector works hand-in-hand with the Hamilton County Inspectors to ensure compliance.  It is the applicant's responsibility to contact the Township once the project is complete to schedule a final inspection.

11. How long does it take to schedule a final inspection?

      Typically 1-2 days depending on the inspectors schedule and availability. 

12. Do I need to be present for an inspection?

     For residential projects - generally, no.  For commercial projects - yes.  Please check with the zoning inspector to be certain.

 

13. Who do I contat for an inspection with the Township?

      Harry Holbert at (513) 792-7252.

14. Does the Planning & Zoning Department do fire reviews as well?

      No.  All fire reviews are done by Assistant Chief - Doug Morath.  He can be contacted by calling (513) 792-7246 or dmorath@sycamoretownship.org

15. Where do I find an application to complete?  

Please see our home page under the On-Line Serivce section or simply click here.