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Planning & Development

Zoning Code Update

Notice: Updated Zoning Code Effective February 9, 2026
Stow’s updated zoning code will take effect on February 9, 2026.  Applications submitted before February 9, 2026 will be reviewed under the current code. Applications submitted on or after February 9 must comply with the updated code. The permitting portal will be updated to reflect these changes. The proposed regulations can be reviewed below.

To review the updated zoning code, please visit the link below:
View Updated Zoning Code
If you have questions about how these changes may affect your project, please contact the Planning & Development Department.

About StowImages of Stow Collage

Located in northern Summit County Ohio, the City of Stow is a dynamic community that has experienced steady growth in the last decade. Stow is conveniently located between Akron and Cleveland and offers excellent access to major highways and interstates. Stow is the third largest city in Summit County with a 2025 estimated population of 34,300.

Planning & Development

The Planning & Development Department consists of the following divisions: Planning, Economic Development, Zoning & GIS (Geographic Information Systems). The Department is responsible for planning the future development of Stow, managing current land uses, facilitating business development, and enforcement of the City’s Zoning Code.



Did you know?

The Department of Planning and Development is issuing a friendly reminder that a permit may be required for your project.

Did you know that the City consists of various zoning districts with different regulations for exterior projects such as distances to property lines, allowable square footage, maximum height, and required permitting? Zoning regulations are intended to ensure the health, safety, order, and general welfare of the City and its residents.  It’s always recommended that you contact the Department prior to beginning your project to ensure that it meets all applicable regulations.

Please follow the link below to review the online permit applications.

Online Permit Applications

  1. Do I need a permit?
  2. What is my property zoned?
  3. How are permits used?
  4. Where can I install a fence (residential property)?
  5. Where can I build on my property?
  6. Who is responsible for locating my property lines?
  7. How do I apply for a permit?
  8. Do I need a permit for a carport?
  9. Do I need a permit for a driveway?
View All

Did you know the city also has regulations for property maintenance? Properties are required to be kept in good repair and to obtain permit approvals. Failure to do so may result in violations being issued to your property to resolve the matter.  Some of the regulations include, but is not limited to, work without a permit, tall grass, parking in the grass, structures in disrepair, parking of construction equipment, storage of junk and inoperable vehicles.

Who do I contact if I have a zoning-related complaint to make?
The Zoning Inspector handles all zoning violations and complaints. Her phone number is (330) 689-2814. If the Zoning Inspector is not available, you may call the Planning Department at (330) 689-2812, and we will log the complaint to schedule an inspection on the property to verify that there is a violation. You may also email the department at Planning@stow.oh.us to make a complaint.  Below are some of the most common complaints of violations that the city receives:

  1. Temporary Signs
  2. Tall Grass
  3. Junk & debris stored on the property
  4. Vehicles and/or trailers parked on grass
  5. Junk vehicles stored on the property
  6. Work without a permit
  7. Recreational vehicles on grass
View All

Again, please feel free to contact the Department of Planning and Development for any questions or information regarding your project.  You can reach us by phone at 330-689-2812 or by email at Planning@stow.oh.us

To find your zoning district, please visit the online zoning map.

To review applicable zoning and building regulations, please review the code of ordinances at Stow Ordinances  

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