Local
Residents reminded permits are a must
By Beverly Keller
Local Edition Editor
When a homeowner in the Village of Sugarcreek is looking to make improvements that will change the look of their property - their first stop should be Sugarcreek’s village hall in order to obtain a permit.
“Most people don’t think that they need one, but they do for almost anything,” explained President of the Zoning Board of Appeals Tom Mueller. “Pools, fences, storage barns are just some of the things you need a permit for. In reality, if it changes the outside of the property - you need a permit. It’s that simple.”
Mueller noted that it is much easier and more efficient to apply for a permit and submit plans for any improvement before they are completed because in some situations the only remedy for an improvement that is against code is to remove it. “That is worst case scenario,” he said. “But it could happen.”
He shared that during the summer months many purchase and erect pools as a way to beat the heat. However, before a drop of water is put into the pool, the set back and dimensions need to be approved by Sugarcreek’s Zoning Inspector and Village Administrator, Richard Rausch. “Once a permit is filled out and filed, it is given to Dick [Richard Rausch] who will look over the project and the property as a whole and determine if the project can be given the go ahead or not,” Mueller said. “In some cases a homeowner will need to apply for a variance in order to erect a fence in the desired spot or to place the storage barn properly on a lot.”
Mueller noted that recently an issue arose with a pool that was installed without prior approval and while a variance was granted, homeowners can’t rely on a variance paving the way for changes that have been made prior to the variance being granted. “It is just a lot better for everyone if they follow procedure and take out an application for a permit,” Mueller said. “It can save a lot of time and money.”
Permit packets can be picked up from Sugarcreek Village Hall during normal business hours, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Questions should be directed to Village Administrator Richard Rausch at 330-852-4112.