Where and how do I get a permit?
You can pick up a residential or commercial application M-F/8-5 at the Sycamore Township Administration Building, or one can be downloaded from our site. Once the application is submitted, along with (3) copies of your plot/site plan, elevation drawings and a nominal fee they are reviewed.  If approved - a zoning permit will be issued. 

The zoning permit will then need to be taken to the Hamilton County Building Department, located at 138 East Court Street, 8th Floor for the actual building permit. (Please make note, that building permits are not necessary for fences and sheds under 200 square feet) This process typically can be processed within 24 hours if not sooner.

I think my neighbor is running a business out of his/her home?
You can pick up a complaint form M-F/8-5 at the Sycamore Township Administration Building, or one can be faxed to you, provided you have access to a fax machine.

Once the compliant is completed, an investigation of the complaint will be conducted.

It is also helpful for the Township if documentation of such activity can be included for our records, since activity does occur during non-business hours at the Township. (pictures?, truck deliveries?, commodity or stock?, additional traffic?, employees?)

Why did I receive a zoning violation and what should I do?
There are two main cases in which zoning violations are issued -building without a permit or when the Township has received a complaint on your property. Correct the problem as soon as possible. If you are unable to address the situation, contact the Township office as soon as possible. Failure to comply can result in fines or declaration of the property as a nuisance.

I want to build a fence on my property. How high can it be?
Permitted fences located in the rear yard can be a maximum height of six (6) feet above the average grade and may be made of a solid variety. In the side and front yards, the maximum height permitted is four (4) feet above the average grade and the fence must be 75% open. All fences are permitted to be placed up to the property line. Sheds are permitted as well, however they must be located in the rear yard and be three (3) feet from the property line and not occupy more than 35% of the rear yard. Permits are required for both-

What is the difference between a zoning permit and a building permit?
A zoning permit issued by Sycamore Township grants permission for the location, height and use of a structure, where as a building permit issued by The Hamilton County Building Department looks for the structural integrity of the structure itself.

The Zoning Department CANNOT do the following:

.Solve property line disputes

.Handle water run-off issues

.Solve traffic or road problems (other than Township roads)

.Recommend appraisers or surveyors

But perhaps the following departments can: