FAQs • Cleveland Heights, OH • CivicEngage

What if I want to make an improvement to my property that would conflict with the zoning regulations?: Zoning regulations are in place for many reasons, including the need to prevent negative impacts on neighbors and to protect the property values of a neighborhood. However, sometimes, due to an unusual circumstance on their property, a person is justified in seeking a variance from the regulations. Most variances require the review and approval of the Board of Zoning Appeals, but some may be granted administratively. For more information, please contact the Zoning Administrator at 216-291-4855 or email them.

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Planning & Development

1. How does an organization apply for Community Development Block Grant funding?: Applications are solicited each June. However, the first step for an organization interested in CDBG funding is to discuss their proposed program to determine if it is an eligible CDBG activity by emailing Brian Iorio at 216-291-4845.

2. How do I find out more about the neighborhood and business districts?: The city maintains a database of demographics for each business district and surrounding neighborhood. Please email Brian Anderson, Business Development Manager at 216-291-2617 or visit the Economic Development page.

3. Does the city have any financial aid for small business?: The City has loan and grant programs. Please email Brian Anderson, Business Development Manager at 216-291-2617 or visit the Economic Development page for more information.

4. How can I determine if the kind of business I want to operate is permitted at a given location?: Planning Department staff will be able to answer your questions in regard to permitted uses of land. Some uses are permitted 'by right,' which means that no special approvals are needed, while others may be 'conditionally permitted.' Conditionally permitted uses of land generally require Planning Commission review and approval. Call the department at 216-219-4878 or email the department. you can also email Brian Anderson, Business Development Manager at 216-291-2617 for more information.

5. I am thinking about opening a business and wondered where I can obtain a list of available storefronts for lease or sale?: To obtain a list, please email Brian Anderson, Business Development Manager or 216-291-2617.

6. Does the city own any property available for development?: On occasion, the City will issue a request for qualifications for developers on property that it owns. For current availability, please email Brian Anderson, Business Development Manager or phone at 216-291-2617.

7. How tall can a fence be on residential property, and does fence installation require a permit?: Fences may be up to seven feet in rear and interior side yards, although with fences parallel to and within seven feet of a house (either the fence-owner's or a neighbor's), the fence's height may be no more than its distance from the house. Front- and corner-side-yard fences are limited to three feet in height and require Architectural Board of Review approval. Chain-link or wire-mesh fencing is not permitted in front or corner side yards, and barbed wire is not permitted at all. A permit issued by the Planning Department is required for all new and replacement fences in the city. See the Fence Regulations / Fence Permit Application (PDF).

8. How can I determine where my property lines are?: Unfortunately, the only sure way to determine the location of a property line is to have a survey done. The City does not become involved in property-line disputes. Call 216-291-4878 for more information.

9. What if I want to make an improvement to my property that would conflict with the zoning regulations?: Zoning regulations are in place for many reasons, including the need to prevent negative impacts on neighbors and to protect the property values of a neighborhood. However, sometimes, due to an unusual circumstance on their property, a person is justified in seeking a variance from the regulations. Most variances require the review and approval of the Board of Zoning Appeals, but some may be granted administratively. For more information, please contact the Zoning Administrator at 216-291-4855 or email them.

10. What are the regulations regarding yard signs?: Yard signs are permitted to advertise a property for sale or rent, to advise of a garage or yard sale, or to express an opinion (on an upcoming election, for example). Signs must be placed parallel to the street and set back at least 20 feet from the right-of-way line; the right-of-way line is usually along the inner edge of your sidewalk. Other restrictions also apply. For details, please call the Department of Planning and Development at 216-291-4878 or email the department.

11. Is it permissible for me to operate a day-care business out of my home?: In most cases, the answer would be yes, but many restrictions and limitations apply. An annually renewable permit is also required. Please direct your questions to the Planning Department or at 216-291-4878.