Building Department

Commercial Permits

Commercial and Industrial Permits

In an attempt to make your business move into Solon a pleasant one, we ask that you adhere to the following procedures in obtaining your Certificate of Occupancy.  It is important that you review and follow these steps to avoid any unnecessary delays.

• CHANGE OF TENANT (Taking existing space as is)

The Application for Certificate of Occupancy form must be completed and returned to the Building Department prior to scheduling an inspection.  We appreciate your cooperation by completing these forms as thoroughly as possible. If assistance is needed regarding the information requested in Part III, you may contact the building owner and/or Solon Fire Prevention Bureau at the number shown above. 

Upon receipt of your completed Application for Certificate of Occupancy, we will conduct a preliminary review prior to inspection of the premises. The City will take up to 10 working days to review and verify the information submitted in the application.

Our office will then contact you to schedule an inspection date and time. As a new tenant, you are reminded not to move any furnishings or equipment into the building prior to receiving your certificate of occupancy.   The Building, Zoning and Fire Prevention Inspectors will note any code violations and a copy of each report shall be given to you at the time of the on-site inspection.   

Keep in mind, all required fire extinguishers and fire suppression systems must be installed.  The Solon Fire Prevention Bureau may be contacted at (440) 337-1482 during normal business hours if you have any questions.

Once all violations are corrected, you are required to contact the Building Department to schedule a re-inspection.  

Upon verification that all outstanding violations are corrected, the Building Department shall issue a Certificate of Occupancy.   

If applicable, you may find the following contacts helpful.  If you are applying to open a restaurant, contact Ms. Erin Hart from the Cuyahoga County Department of Health, at (216) 443-7500.  If you are applying for a day care facility; contact the Ohio Department of Human Services, Child Day Care Licensing Section, at (614) 466-1043. If you are applying for a beauty or barbershop, contact the Department of Cosmetology at (614) 466-3834. 

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• CHANGE OF TENANT (Interior alterations requiring a permit, prior to occupancy of space)

The Application for Certificate of Occupancy form must be completed and submitted to the Building Department for conformance with Zoning Regulations. If any alterations are needed, a building permit must also be obtained. A final construction inspection must be done before any interior furnishings or equipment are brought into the building.

Once your final construction inspection has been approved, everything should be set up and ready for operation of business. All required fire extinguishers and fire suppression systems must be installed.  The Solon Fire Prevention Bureau may be contacted at (440) 337-1482 during normal business hours if you have any questions.

Should you have other questions in reference to the above, or if we may be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. We hope to make your transition into Solon a pleasant experience.