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North Ridgeville, Ohio
Welcome to the official Internet home of the City of North Ridgeville. Founded in 1810 & incorporated as a city in 1960, North Ridgeville is 25 square miles in eastern Lorain County OH, a typical Middle American community with a ?hometown? feel, known for its families & churches. We hope you find what you're looking for.


FAQ
Home : FAQs
ACH DebitsAdministrativeBuilding DepartmentCommunity AnnouncementsCouncil, Boards & CommissionFireIncome TaxLaw DepartmentMayors CourtMiscellaneousParks & RecreationPolice DepartmentRefuse/Recycling/Yard WasteService GarageTreasurerSenior CenterUtilities


ACH Debits
How can I sign up?
Just stop by the Utilities Department and complete the authorization form, which will require a VOIDED check.
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What if my account is with a credit union or savings and loan?
All Financial Institutions can participate in this program.
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Will I still receive a monthly utility bill?
Yes, your bill will look just like your previous bills except that you will be instructed not to pay the bill since your payment will be automatically deducted from your bank account.
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How will my bill be paid?
Your banking institution will be notified of the amount due on your account on the “Due Date” and the bank will automatically deduct that amount from your account on that date.
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What if there isn't enought money in my account when I get my bill?
There will be enough time to make a deposit because the payment amount is not deducted from your bank account until the due date on your bill, which is approximately 16 days after we send your bill.
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What if I have a question about the amount of my utility bill?
Give us a call at the number shown on your utility bill.  We will be glad to answer any questions that you have regarding your bill or account.  If you do have a question on the amount of your bill, please call us at least one week before the deduction is made to allow us ample time to investigate and make the necessary adjustments, if needed.
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How can I be sure that my utility bill has been paid?
Your utility payment will be clearly itemized on your monthly checking account statement sent by the bank.
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Can I stop the automated bill payment plan?
Yes, simply notify us in writing at least five business days before the due date of the bill that you wish to discontinue this service.
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Is there a charge for this service?
No, the City of does not charge for automated payments.  However, there will be a charge for all Returned (Unpaid) ACH Transactions.
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How soon will my first automated payment take place?
A prenote (zero dollar transaction) will be produced the first billing month after you sign up for the service.  The prenote will allow us to make certain that all of your bank account information has been entered correctly and that there are no problems.  The following billing month will be your first actual automatic payment (ACH deduction).
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Will I need to notify the utilites department if my banking information changes?
Yes, it is very important to notify us in advance of any changes to your bank account information that we have on file for your automatic payments.  A new Authorization Form will need to be filled out when any banking information changes.
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I am trying to delete a payment account for a checking account that I'm closing, and the system won't let me delete it. Why not?
You can not delete an active payment account. A payment account is active if it is either currently selected as the default for a bill or it is selected for paying a bill that you've approved for payment but hasn't yet been paid. In order to delete the payment account, you need to choose a new default payment account whenever that account is used and choose a new payment account if that account is being used for any pending bills. You can then delete the payment account.
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What are some examples of different types of payment settings?

Click2Pay allows you to make an immediate payment toward a statement. You may make a full or partial payment. You may pay by a credit card or by direct debit to your checking account.

Bill Assistant allows you to automatically pay your bills when they become due. To cover exceptions and/or errors you may set limits on the size of the bill that will be automatically paid. You may also setup recurring payment for a fixed payment amount.

Email Payment allows you to set up a payment order that is triggered when you reply to a new bill email. You set up the account to be xharged when your reply is recived. Everything else is automatic. If you do not want to pay the full amount due then use the Click2Pay.

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Can I print a bill?
Yes. After displaying the bill, slect the Print command from the File menu or press the "Ctrl" and "P" key simultaneously.
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What if I forget my user ID or password?
Contact customer service. They'll verify your identity and provide you with a temporary password.
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How do I find my bank's routing number?
The routing number is a nine-digit number that identifies the insutution of which you have the account. to find it on a check or on a savings deposit slip, look for the numbers shown below.
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When I try to display a bill, all I see is a little symbol. What could be the problem?
Your documents are stored as  Adobe PDF files, and you may not have the Adobe Acrobat Reader plug-in installed. To correct this problem, download the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader.
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What if I decide not to pay a bill online anymore?
You are not required to pay online just because you recive a bill electonically. Simply do not make the payment online. In case of Bill Payment Assistant, you may stop paying online by deleting the payment tule. If you are paying by email reply then you delete the email payment payment order.
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Administrative
How can I get a garage sale permit?
This permit is available at the Mayor's office Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Two permits per year, per address are allowed and can be up to four consecutive days (Sundays permissible) at a cost of $2.00 per permit.
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How can I get a vehicle permit?
If you are wishing to sell a vehicle, you must obtain a permit. These can be obtained in the Mayor's office Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. The permit is good for 30 days. Two permits per year per address are allowed at the cost of $2.00.
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How do I get a solicitors permit?

Permit applications are available through the Administrative office. These can be obtained Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Solicitors obtain an application, fill in the appropriate information and submit it to the Safety Service Director's office for approval. There is no fee for this permit.

  • Please bring a copy of the employer/organization's credentials showing the exact relationship and authority of the regisistrant to the business represented. A letter signed by a person of authority to so authorize from the business will suffice.
  • A copy of Drivers License/Photo I.D. is required for each person soliciting as well as their contact phone number.

All door-to-door activity of any nature shall be restricted to the h ours of 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.

A violation by the Registrant or any agent thereof any requirement of Ordinance No. 3899-2003 is punishable by a fine up to $250.00 per violation.

A copy of this permit shall be carried by each employee who goes upon the property of citizens in the City of North Ridgeville.

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How do I get a dog license?
Dog licenses can be purchased at the Grateful Dog Bakery, 31966 Center Ridge road, 440-353-1990 or at the Lorain County Administration Building in Elyria, 226 Middle Avenue or call 440-329-5000.
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How do I get a movile frozen dessert permit?

The mobile frozen dessert permit (ice-cream truck vendors) applications are available in the Administrative off Monday-Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. There is a $25.00 fee. Applications must be filled out and all critera met before permit is approved by the Safety Service Director.

  • Each vehicle has to have a driver who is at least 21 years of age and possess a valid driver's license. 
  • Each vehicle shall be accompanied by at least one employee to assist in sales and observation of traffic.
  • Outer garments or uniforms are affirmed to be clean and to display the name of the employer.
  • A copy of a current and valid food establishment permit issued by the Health District authorities is needed.
  • Proof of at least $300,000.00 bodily injury and property damage insurance is shown.
  • A copy of an inspection of the vehicle by someone qualified to do so is attached showing:
    • in letters of not less than two inches, the vehicle displays the prodcut names, the manufacturer, and the employer's name and telephone number.
    • the vehicle is of commercial metal construction, properly insulated, in good repair, well-painted, and clean and sanitary both inside and out.
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How do I get married by Mayor Gillock?
  • Make appointment at mutually agreeable time with the Mayor's Administrative Assistant Sandy or Safety-Service Director's Administrative Assistant Robin.  Mayor does weddings 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mon. through Fri.  If the Mayor is not available, weddings may be performed by the Safety Service Director.
  • Take Mayor's name and date of wedding to the Probate Court at the Justice Center, 225 Court Street, 6th Floor, Elyria.  For further information regarding their requirements, costs, etc., visit their link at www.loraincounty.com/probate or call 329-5295 or 329-5176. 
  • The Probate Court will give you a packet which you bring to the Mayor's Office anytime during regular business hours, BUT NO LATER THAN 2 DAYS BEFORE THE DATE OF THE WEDDING, so that forms may be filled out and the ceremony prepared. 
  • Mayor asks that you make a $100 donation when bringing in your license which he gives to the North Ridgeville Senior Center.  (Cash, checks or money orders only. Make checks payable to Seniors, Inc.)    
  • Return on the chosen date and come to the Mayor's Office to gather.  You are allowed to have guests, but witnesses are not required.  The ceremony will take place in our Council Chambers.  Cameras, music, flowers, etc., are acceptable.  The ceremony will take approximately 10 minutes.

Please feel free to call 353-0811 or 353-0819 if you have any further questions.  Between December 1, 2003 and August 10, 2008, Mayor Gillock has performed over 160 weddings.  

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Building Department
What is a building permit?
A building permit is your formal permission to begin construction, demolition, addition or renovation on your property.

The Building Department's certified plans examiners must review your plans to ensure that they comply with the Residential Code of Ohio, local Zoning Ordinances, and other applicable regulations. Building permits regulate types of construction allowed and ensure that building standards are met. The building permit process protects the owner's interests and those of the community at large, and helps to ensure that structural changes are safe.

By obtaining a permit, you can also take advantage of the professional expertise of the Building Department's State of Ohio Certified Inspectors. Our staff, Plan Examiners and Inspectors can offer suggestions to help you solve or avoid construction problems. It is to your advantage to ensure that you or your contractor obtain the necessary permits and schedule the required inspections.

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When do I need a building permit?
You will need a building permit if you plan to:

  • Construct a new house
  • Renovate, repair or add to a house
  • Demolish or remove all or a portion of a building 
  • Install, change, or remove partitions and load bearing walls
  • Make new openings for, or change the size of, doors and windows
  • Build a detached garage, outbuilding or storage shed
  • Build a balcony or deck
  • Finishing a basement
  • Install or modify heating, plumbing or air-conditioning systems
  • Install or reconstruct chimneys or fireplaces
  • Install or add to a driveway
  • Build a fence
  • Install a lawn sprinkler system
  • Put in an in-ground or above ground pool
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I want to demolish / tear down my garage. Do I have to rebuild a new one?
Yes, within six (6) months.
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What is the largest size garage that I can build on my property?
No detached garage shall exceed 26’ in length or width or be over 676 square feet in area in any residential district zone with ½ acre or less. On lots greater than ½ acre the total lot coverage (footprint of all structures added together) cannot exceed 10%.
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Can I have more than 1 outbuilding or garage?
Each dwelling may have both a private detached garage and an outbuilding.  You should also verify with your Homeowner’s Association regarding regulations for your development.
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How high can my garage or outbuilding be?
One story or 15 feet to the mean point of the roof (halfway between peak and eave). In agriculturally zoned areas or property greater than ½ acre outbuildings shall not exceed 35 feet in height.
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Do I need to have a floor drain in my new garage?
No, but if you want to install one it must be tied into the sanitary sewer.
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How close to the rear and side yard property lines can I build the garage?
The garage or outbuilding must be at least 5’ from property lines and 10’ from any other structure on the lot. Refer to: Setback And Lot Requirements For Zoning Districts
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How many layers of shingles can I have on my garage (or house)?
The maximum number of roofs permitted is two (2). After that, a complete tear-off is required.
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Can I put shingles on a low sloped or flat roof?
If the roof has a pitch of 2/12 or less, than a rolled type roofing is required.
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Are garage lights required?
No, if there is no electrical run to the garage. Yes, if there is electrical run to the garage. This light must illuminate entrance doors of the garage.
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Can I construct a carport instead of a garage (or add a carport to my garage) ?
Yes, you will need to meet the setback requirements and must submit drawings and application to the Building Department.
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What is the largest size deck I can build & are there any restrictions?
There is no size limit except that allowed within the setback requirements of your property. The deck may extend a maximum of 10’ into the required rear yard. Uncovered porches may extend a maximum of 5’ into the required front yard. The deck must be a minimum of 5’ from side property lines. Any deviation from the above may require a zoning variance.
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Do I need construction drawings for a deck permit?
Yes
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What should deck drawings show on them?
Size of the deck (length & width); Square footage of deck; Location, distance & depth of 4x4 posts (Minimum depth of postholes is 36 inches deep); Size & spacing of floor joists; Type of wood used for decking. Railings for deck & steps (if over 30 inches or 4 risers high); Spindles for railings (spindle spacing less than 4” clear between); Stairs showing riser & tread dimensions. You may use the example drawings in the Deck permit packet as a guide or fill in blanks & modify as needed depending on the complexity of your design.
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Can I build my fence on the property line?
No, the fence can be built up to but not on the property line. A privacy or barred fence must be held 2’ off the property line for maintenance. There must be a 4’ gate within 10’ of the house.
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Can I run the fence down to the public sidewalk in my front yard?
In the front yard a fence must not exceed 3½ feet in height and the fence must be 50% open. A fence may not be located in the Right of Way.
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How high can my fence be?
The maximum height for a solid privacy fence is six (6) feet from the front building line to the rear otherwise a fence from the front building line in the front or side yard may only be 3 ½ feet high.
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How deep do I have to dig the postholes for my fence?
3 feet deep is recommended
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Does the 'good' side of a fence have to face my neighbor's yard?
Yes
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Do I need a permit to construct a fence?
Yes. See permit fees with the application.
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Is a permit needed to put shingles on my roof?
Yes, and the contractor is required to be registered in the City of North Ridgeville.
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How many layers of shingles can I have on my roof?
The maximum number of roofs permitted is two (2). After that, a complete tear-off is required.
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Can I put shingles over a tile or slate roof?
Only if the shingle manufacture states that their product can be installed over tiles or slate.
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Can I run my downspouts into the storm sewer?
No, all downspouts (for new construction) must be run to grade on splash blocks. On an existing building it is recommended that they be run to splash blocks.
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When do I use shingles vs. rolled roofing?
Shingles can be used on roofs with a pitch of 2/12 or steeper. Less than 2/12 requires rolled roofing or membrane roof.
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Do I need to be registered (as a contractor) to do construction work in North Ridgeville?
Yes
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Where may I obtain an Application for Contractor Registration?
Applications for Contract Registration are available in the office, on the web site or you may contact the Building Department at (440) 353-0822 and an application packet can be e-mailed or faxed to you.
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When can I register as a contractor in North Ridgeville?
Monday through Friday (Excluding holidays)
8:00 A.M. - 4:30 P.M.
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How much does is cost to register as a contractor?
General Contractor $200.00

Subcontractors $50.00

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Do I need to be bonded to work in North Ridgeville?
Yes, bond in the amount of $10,000.00 on the bond form in the Contractor’s Registration Package.
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Do I need to have insurance to work in North Ridgeville?
Yes, you need to provide our office with a current Certificate of Insurance with the City of North Ridgeville, Ohio named as the Certificate Holder.
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How much insurance do I need to have to get registered as a contractor?
Minimum $500,000/$1,000,000 Liability AND $10,000 Property Damage
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When are inspections required?
It is the responsibility of the permit holder to call for all required inspections. Review the inspection steps with the person assigning the permit. Whenever an inspection has been requested and work is found to be incomplete or in need of correction(s), there may be a $50.00 re-inspection fee imposed.
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Can I start work before registering or securing a permit?
No. Permits will not be issued until the Contractor is registered.
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Do my subcontractors have to register with the city to work in North Ridgeville?
All subcontractors shall be registered with the City of North Ridgeville.
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Can I put my company sign in the yard of a dwelling I am doing work on?
Temporary signage is permitted, 600 square inches maximum.
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Can I register as a general contractor doing more that one type of work?
See the Registration Form for list of contractor types.
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What size pool needs a permit to install?
Any pool with a diameter of twelve (12) feet or greater. If the pool depth is 18” to 48” a fence is required.
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What do I need to do to obtain a pool permit?
Bring the following to the Building Department: Completed application; Plot plan; The paperwork that comes with your pool, pump & filter
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What is a plot plan?

A plot plan is a "Birds-eye" view of your yard showing the following:

  • Your house
  • Your garage
  • Any other structures on your property
  • The location of the proposed above ground swimming pool, deck or outbuilding, etc.
  • Where the fence is located
  • The distances from the outside of the pool to the fence, garage, house etc.
  • Location of where the electrical receptacle will be for the pool pump/filter 
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Can the pool be placed in the front or side yard?
No - not without seeking a Zoning variance & approval from the BZA
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Can I put the pool at the rear or side yard property line(s)?
The pool shall be a minimum of five (5) feet from the rear & side yard property lines.
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Is a permit needed for the pool pump/ filter electricity?
This is included in your pool application fee, see the diagram included in the pool permit package for information
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Can I use the receptacle in my garage for the pool pump/filter?
Yes, if it conforms to the current National Electrical Code. Contact Building Department.
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Can I use exterior lighting for the pool?
Exterior lights used to illuminate any pool shall be arranged and shaded as to reflect light away from adjoining premises & public streets. Such lights shall be turned off between 10:00 P.M. and 8:30 A.M.
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Is a fence required for my pool?
Yes, if the pool is 18” or deeper. The fence needs to adhere to the following:
1. The (Building Department) approved fence shall have a minimum height of four (4) feet.
2. It shall completely enclose the surrounding pool area. NOTE: A building or existing wall may be used as a part of such enclosure.
3. Gates or doors opening through such fence / enclosure shall be of self-closing & self-latching construction and shall be designed to permit locking and shall be kept locked when the pool is not in actual use, or is left unattended.
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Do I need a permit to construct a concrete or asphalt driveway?
Yes, extensions to existing or a new driveway requires a permit
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Do I need a permit to construct a service or postal walk?
No
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Do I need a permit to construct a concrete patio ?
No, as long as it is not used for vehicular traffic / parking. Do not direct storm run off onto adjacent property.
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What information do I need to secure a driveway permit?
  1. A plot plan or drawing showing the location of the driveway.
  2. Show length & width dimensions
  3. Show total square feet
  4. Show type of material (concrete or asphalt)
  5. Completed application form
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How much does a driveway permit fee cost?
See Permit Fees
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Are permits required for public sidewalks and street aprons?
Yes, permits are required for both.
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Do I need to install wire mesh in the driveway?
No, wire mesh is not required. It is recommended that either wire mesh or fiber be used.
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What type of base is needed for the driveway?
Compacted Gravel 4” thick - no larger than two (2) inches in diameter or other material approved by the Building Department.
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How close to the property line can I construct my driveway?
You can construct the driveway up to but not on the property line. Do not direct storm water runoff onto adjacent property.
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Where are expansion joints required?
At the garage; At the public sidewalk; At any service / postal walk; At any property line if two (2) driveways are being constructed side by side; 1” thick at a concrete street.
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Do I need to have a driveway drain?
No, however the rainwater must flow to the street or your property only. Rainwater shall not flow to your house, garage or to an adjoining property.
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When does the Building Department need to inspect the concrete driveway work?
1. Call for an inspection upon completion of the setting of forms / stone. (24 hour notice is required for this inspection).
2. Call for a final inspection of the driveway when forms have been removed and backfilled.
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When does the Building Department need to inspect the asphalt driveway work?
Call for final inspection when asphalt driveway completed.
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What type of tree can I plant in my tree lawn?
The following list of trees shall be permitted in tree lawns (Right-of-Way). Any other species of tree(s) not on the following list shall require the approval of the City of North Ridgeville.
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Community Announcements
How do I remove my email address?
If you do not wish to receive the community email, please send an email to Remove, or call our main office at (440) 353-0819 and ask for your email name to be removed.
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Council, Boards & Commission
What ward do I live in?
If you need to find the ward you live in, refer to this ward map and find your location.
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Who is the representative for my ward?

Ward 1 Nancy Buescher
Ward 2 Dennis Boose
Ward 3 Richard Jaenke
Ward 4 Bob Olesen

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How do I contact a council official?

If you need to contact a council official, you can email them, or you can call the office of the Clerk of Council and leave a message at 440-353-0513 or 440-353-1508.

Bernadine Butkowski President of Council
Kevin Corcoran Member at Large
Ray McLaughlin Member at Large 
Nancy Buescher  Ward 1 
Dennis Boose  Ward 2 
Richard Jaenke  Ward 3 
Bob Olesen  Ward 4 

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Fire
How do I obtain a recreational fire permit?
The North Ridgeville Fire Department maintains a recreational fire permit program in order to track recreational fire locations and encourage safe burning practices. For additional information please visit the Fire Department page.
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Income Tax
What is the tax rate?
1 % (.01 - One percent)

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Is there reciprocity between cities?
No, reciprocity was discontinued in the early 1970's.

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Is there credit provided?
Yes, although we do not receive any of the monies from the work cities a credit for paying to these communities is allowed. The credit  remains at .10 of 1% (.01)

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How old must you be to file and who must file?
North Ridgeville has mandatory filing for ALL residents 18 years or older, having earned income and not fully retired or on permanent disability, whether there is tax due or not. This includes tenants who rent. This income tax is based on earnings not property ownership. NON-RESIDENTS: Who are engaged in a North Ridgeville business activity i.e., rental property, self employed, partnerships, companies, corporations, etc.
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What are the due dates?
The annual return form FR is due by April 15th each year. The first quarter is always due with the final return form by April 15th. We do not bill separately for the first quarter estimated tax, this is incorporated into our final return form. The second quarter ends June 30th and is due by July 31st. The third quarter ends September 30th and is due by October 31st. The fourth quarter ends December 31st and is due by January 31st. Bills are sent as a convenience for the remaining three quarters with the amounts and due dates indicated.
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Do I have to pay estimated tax quarterly?
Yes, unless your employer is withholding the correct amount of tax for North Ridgeville, this is required by City Ordinance. Current estimated tax not paid on a timely basis is subject to the minimum penalty of $25.00 per quarter. This statement is clearly noted on each bill.

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Do college students have to file?
Yes, college students who maintain North Ridgeville as their legal address, is considered their resident city. This is the address they maintain for federal and state tax filings, driver's license and/or voters and automobile registration etc. This is due to the large turnover of students each year within the college town.
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Do I pay taxes on my pension?
No. This also includes drawn on deferred compensations, cafeteria plans, IRA's etc., as these were taxed initially by the work and resident cities. When issued it is received on a W2 P/R or 1099 P/R which indicates this is retirement pension and is not taxable to the city.
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What about property, federal and state taxes?
Information for property taxes can not be answered by this office. This is the city income tax office and can only answer questions regarding the city income tax which is based on earned income. The property taxes are assessed through the county and you must contact the Lorain County Auditor's office or the Treasurer's office at: 329-5212 or 329-5256. Also we can not answer questions regarding the Federal or State income taxes however you can contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. The State of Ohio Department of Taxation can be reached at 1-800-282-1780.
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Does the income tax department still compute the city income tax?
Yes, the Tax Department will compute the city tax return for you at no charge. You must provide the income tax office with your W2 form(s) by March 15th each year and we will complete the billing computation and return it for you. This is a service offered to the residents for their tax dollars.
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Law Department
May the Law Department provide me legal advice?
Due to legal constraints, the Law Department staff is unable to provide legal advice to residents concerning private legal disputes or any other private matters, such as property disputes or eviction proceedings.
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Mayors Court
Can I pay for my ticket over the Internet?
No, you can appear for court, pay at the Mayors Court window, or call in to find out your fine and mail in your payment. If you call in, please have your ticket available for reference.
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Miscellaneous
Is there a city wide yard sale?
Yes, it is called "Trash to Treasure" days.  North Ridgeville Visitor's Bureau hosts it. For further information regarding this event please contact NRVB at 440-327-3737.
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Who should I contact to report a street light outage.
When there is a street light outage, please call or log-on to First Engery Corp/Ohio Edison. By directly contacting First Engery Corp/Ohio Edison, it will speed up the repair time.

For hazardous situations

If the outage presents a hazardous situation - such as broken glass or lens, the fixture is in danger of falling, the wires are exposed, the pole is damaged, leaning or knocked down - DO NOT complete the form. Instead, call your FirstEnergy Contact Center immediately.

 
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Parks & Recreation
How do I register my bicycle?
North Ridgeville residents can purchase a bike license for only $1.00 at the Parks and Recreation office during normal business hours. Bike information, such as serial number, make/model, tire size, color, etc., will be kept on file at the North Ridgeville Police Department.
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Where can I buy a dog license?
Dog licenses can be purchased at the Grateful Dog Bakery, 31966 Center Ridge Road.  For more information please call 353-1190.
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Can I reserve the gazebo at South Central Park?
The South Central Park gazebo can be reserved for weddings.  Permits are issued at the Parks and Recreation office at a cost of $25.00.
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Can I reserve a pavilion at South Central Park?
South Central Park pavilions are not reserved. They are free on a first come first serve basis.
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How can I find a babysitter?
If you are looking for a babysitter you can call the Parks and Recreation at 353-0860 for a list of American Red Cross certified babysitters.
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Do I need a license to fish at South Central Park?
No license is required to fish at South Central Park. Fishing is allowed year round from dawn to dusk.  Catch and release is encouraged.
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How can I become an instructor?

If you have a special skill, talent, practical knowledge or experience you would like to share, Parks and Recreation will gladly work with you to set up a program. Send a letter of interest to:

Program Supervisor

Parks & Recreation

7327 Avon Belden Road

North Ridgeville, OH 44039

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How do I become a volunteer?
There are plenty of opportunities to volunteer for programs and special events.  Contact the Parks and Recreation Program Supervisor at 353-0880 to see how you can help.
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Police Department
How do I obtain a copy of a crash report?
Crash reports usually take 3-5 business days to complete. The records department can be reached at 440-353-0830, between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday. When the report is complete, it can be left for you to pick up, at your convenience, at the dispatch window, which is open 24 hours a day. Your insurance company can request a copy of the report by FAX. Our Fax number is 440-353-0834. When requesting a copy of a crash report, please include the report number. If the report number is unknown, include the driver's name, date of crash, and location, as well as your telephone number and FAX number in case we have any questions regarding your request.
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How do I obtain a record check for employment?
Records checks for employment purposes are done for residents of North Ridgeville only. If an employer is requesting a record check, the person having the record check done must come to the police department with a drivers license and a letter from their employer requesting the record check. If the employer did not supply this form, we need a written, signed and dated request from the person needing the record check for employment purpsoes. This record check is through our department only and NOT a criminal history check through BCI or any other law enforcement agency.
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I need to be fingerprinted for employment purposes. Can the police department do that for me?
Recently the Bureau of Criminal Investigation began accepting AFIS (Automated Fingerprint Identification System) prints only. At this time, our department does not have this technoogy available to the general public. However, there are several locations in Lorain County that can assist you. (Call the police department at 440-327-2191 for a list of those locations). We can assist you with fingerprinting if the employer supplies you with a fingerprint card and you are a resident of North Ridgeville, or work in the city. An appointment is not needed, however you may have a short wait until an officer is available to assist you. Be sure to bring your drivers license or state I.D. card with you.
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Can I have a copy of my arrest report?
As long as an arrest is pending court action, it is not considered a public record. Once it has been adjudicated it is available to the public. If a defendant wants a copy of the arrest report they must file a Motion of Discovery with the court. The request is then given to the Prosecutor's Office to consider. If you have an attorney, he or she can do this for you.
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What is the cost for copies of police reports?
The cost for a crash report is ten cents per page, and the cost for log entries is five cents per page. This cost includes any pages that need to be redacted.
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What is considered a public record?
Any police log or report that is not under investigation or pending any court action is available to the public. Requests need to be as specific as possible and not overly broad. Requests will be handled in a timely fashion and in some cases may take several days before they are available for pick up.
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My car was impounded. How do I get it released?
Depending on why it was towed and impounded, you may need to get a court order to have it released. If so, get the release order from the court. After obtainig the court order release, or if no court order was required, the owner and two drivers with a valid drivers license need to come to the police department to obtain a release which can be taken to the towing company. Once the fees are paid to the tow company, the vehicle can be released.
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What towing company does the police department use and where is it located?
The towing company is Patton's Five Star Towing, located at 8067 Maddock Road in North Ridgeville. They can be reached at 440-353-9558.
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Is there a curfew for minors?

Yes. Juveniles under the age of 16 are not permitted to congregate, loiter, or play upon the streets, sidewalks, public places or places of amusement and entertainment, or to remain away from his or her residence or on unenclosed lands within the city between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. unless accompanied by a parent, guardian, a responsible person 21 years of age or older, or a family member eighteen years of age or older.

For Juveniles age 16 and 17, the prohibited hours are between 12:00 midnight and 5:00 a.m. For further information see city ordinance 636.22.

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Can parents or guardians of juveniles be held accountable for minors who are in violation of the city's cufew?
Yes. For further information see city ordinance 636.22.
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What should I do if there is a house in my neighborhood where I believe drugs are being sold?
Contact the police department and report your suspicions. Questions that you may be asked include the days and times when the activity is mose prevalent, the description and/or names of any residents of the house, if known, and descriptions of any vehicles that may be involved. It is not necessary to identify yourself, but it will be helpful if you do, so that police officers can contact you with any additional questions they may have. We do not release any information to the suspects regarding people who report drug activity or include that information in any of the investigative reports.
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What should I do if I am involved in a traffic crash?
Remain at the scene and either use a cell phone to call the police or ask someone else to call. Try to give an accurate location as to where the crash occurred. It also helps if you can advise us if anyone was injured or whether any hazardous conditions exist, such as a fire or downed power lines. The more information we have, the better we can ensure that the appropriate emergency equipment is dispatched.
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