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Building - Decks & Porches

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1. May I build a deck or porch in the front yard?

An open porch or deck is permitted to be built in the front yard a extending maximum of 10 feet in front of the home foundation wall.

2. I want to build a deck, how do I know if I will need to seek a variance?

Supply a plot plan showing:

1. Show the length and width of your property (the length of your property is from the rear yard property line to the inside edge of the public sidewalk)
2. Details/size of house showing the size of any porches/protrusions
3. Show where the deck will be placed and the size/square footage of the deck
4. Bring this information to the Building Department at 7619 Memphis Avenue

3. Do I need construction drawings?

Yes.

4. What should these drawings show on them?

1. Size of the deck (length and width)
2. Square footage of deck
3. Location, distance and depth of 4 by 4 posts (minimum depth of postholes is 36 inches deep)
4. Size and spacing of floor joists
5. Type of wood used for decking
6. Railings for deck and steps (if over 30 inches high)
7. Spindles for railings (maximum spindle spacing is 5 inches on center
8. Lattice
9. Stairs showing riser and tread dimensions

5. Do I need a permit?

Yes. Visit the Building Forms page to obtain copies of relevant permit application forms.

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Building - Driveways

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1. Do I need a permit to construct a concrete or asphalt driveway?

Yes, any repairs to or new driveway requires a paving permit. Visit the Building Forms page to find the permit form you need.

2. Do I need a permit to construct a service or postal walk?

No.

3. Do I need a permit to construct a concrete patio?

Yes, any repairs to or new driveway requires a paving permit. Visit the Building Forms page to find the permit form you need.

4. 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 and width dimensions
3. Show total square feet
4. Show type of material (concrete or asphalt)

5. How much does a driveway permit fee cost?

View the current Fee Schedule (PDF) to determine the costs of your permit.

6. Are permits required for public sidewalks and street aprons?

Yes, permits are required for both. Visit the Building Forms page to obtain applications for your permits.

7. Do I need to install wire mesh in the driveway?

No, wire mesh is not required but is strongly recommended in the driveway. Wire mesh is not permitted in the public sidewalk or public apron.

8. What type of base is needed for the driveway?

Gravel no larger than 2 inches in diameter or other material approved by the Building Department; to learn more about what materials are approved, contact the Building Department by calling 216-635-4201.

9. How close to the property line can I construct my driveway?

You can construct the driveway up to but not on the property line.

10. Where are expansion joints required?

• At the garage
• At the public sidewalk
• At any service / postal walk
• At any property line if 2 driveways are being constructed side by side

11. Do I need to have a driveway drain?

No, if the rainwater can flow to the street or your property only. Rainwater shall not flow to your house, garage or to an adjoining property.

12. Where do I tie in my driveway drain?

It must be tied into the storm sewer. Drains inside of a garage must be connected to the sanitary sewer.

13. When does the Building Department need to inspect the concrete driveway work?

1. Call 216-635-4203 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.

14. When does the Building Department need to inspect the asphalt driveway work?

Call 216-635-4203 for final inspection when the asphalt driveway is completed.

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Building - Fences (Decorative)

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1. Is a permit required to construct a decorative fence in the front yard?

Yes. To obtain a copy of the application, visit the Building Department at 7619 Memphis Avenue or the Building Forms page.

2. What is tallest decorative fence I can build in the front yard?

Maximum fence height is 3 feet.

3. How long can this decorative fence be?

Total length of fence should not exceed 60% of the house foundation width.

4. Where in the front yard can I put this decorative fence?

The fence shall be no further than 8 feet from the front of the house foundation wall (excluding front stairs).

5. Does the decorative fence have to be made of wood?

No, decorative fences of plastic, metal, or wood such as picket, slat and split rail may be built. Other types may require Board of Zoning Appeals approval.

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Building - Fences (General)

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1. Can I build my fence on the property line?

No, the fence can be built up to but not on the property line in the rear yard.

2. Can I extend my fence to my neighbor's garage?

Yes, but you will need to have:

1. Your neighbor provide a signed permission form (available at the Building Department or online) giving you permission to construct their portion of the fence that is on their property.
2. It will require 2 permits (yours and theirs). Second permit fee will be waived if fence is less than 10 feet long on neighbor’s property.

Visit the Building Forms page to access relevant application forms.

3. Can I run the fence down to the public sidewalk in my front yard?

No, the fence must stop at the front building line. For more information, view the Decorative Fence FAQs.

4. What is a building line?

Every street has a predetermined building line in the front yard of which no structure can encroach without seeking a variance.

5. Where is my building line?

If your block has been developed with a substantially uniform home set-back from the street, the building line is the uniform front foundation line. Contact the Brooklyn Building Department at 216-635-4203 for further information.

6. I own a corner property, my house faces one street but I enter my garage from another street. I want to enclose my entire backyard with a wood fence. Can I do that?

All of the backyard can be enclosed with the exception of an 8 foot triangular area where the driveway meets the public sidewalk. The balance of the fence must be set back from the public sidewalk a minimum of 2 feet.

7. How high can my fence be?

The maximum height for a residential fence is 6 feet.

8. How deep do I have to dig the postholes?

There are no requirements, but the following is recommended:

• Wood and plastic fences: 3 feet minimum
• Metal chain link fences: 2 feet minimum

9. Does the 'good' side of a fence have to face my neighbor's yard and public streets?

Yes.

10. Do I need a permit to construct a fence?

Yes. To access the necessary applications, visit the Building Forms page.

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Building - Garages

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1. I want to demolish / tear down my garage. Do I have to rebuild a new one?

Yes, within 6 months.

2. What is the largest size garage that I can build on my property?

A 400 square foot garage may be built on any residential lot, no matter the lot coverage.

3. What do I do if I want to build a larger garage?

Your garage (and any other accessory buildings in the rear yard area) can occupy up to 20% of your rear yard area, with a maximum of a 600 square foot. If you have a large lot and desire a larger garage you will have to seek a Zoning Variance.

4. How high can my garage be?

15 feet maximum height to the roof peak.

5. What is the smallest size garage that I can build?

• 2 car garage: 18 feet 4 inches wide by 20 feet deep
• Single car garage: 10 feet wide by 20 feet deep

6. Do I need gutters on my garage?

Yes, they can be splash blocked onto your own property or tied into the storm sewer.

7. What is splash blocked?

That is where the downspout rainwater is directed onto your yard (or driveway) rather than being tied directly to storm sewer drain.

8. 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.

9. How close to the rear and side yard property lines can I build the garage?

That depends on what street you live on, with the minimum being three feet from the side and rear property line. Contact the Building Department for further information at 216-635-4203.

10. What kind of siding can I use on my garage?

• T-111 (if painted or stained)
• Vinyl Siding
• Wood lap siding (if painted or stained)

11. How many layers of shingles can I have on my garage (or house)?

The maximum number of roofs permitted is 2. After that, a complete tear-off is required.

12. What kind of shingles can I put on the roof?

The minimum requirement is a 235 pound asphalt or 220 pound fiberglass shingle.

13. Can I put shingles on a "hood" or flat roof?

If the roof has a pitch of 3/12 or less, than a rolled type roofing is required.

14. What are the requirements for constructing a garage pad?

1. You need a 4 inch pad with a 6 inch minimum curb allowing for any wood or siding to be 8 inches above the grade of the land, with a 8 inch deep "rat wall" below on garages 600 square feet or smaller. On larger garages the Residential Code of Ohio requires a minimum of a 36 inch deep footer.
2. Anchor bolts are installed within 1 foot of each corner and not to exceed every 6 feet.
3. Number 10 wire mesh is required in the pad and rolled up into the curb to tie both the pad and the curb together.
4. You need to call your inspector for a forms inspection prior to pouring the concrete; contact the Building Department at 216-635-4203 for more information.
5. Concrete for the pad shall be a minimum of 6-1/2 sack.

15. Is a footer required?

Only on garages larger than 600 square feet.

16. Is a man / service door required?

Yes.

17. Are windows required for a garage?

No.

18. What permits are required to build a garage?

1. Demolition permit
2. Garage pad permit
3. Garage permit
4. (Optional) Electrical Permit

Visit the Building Forms page to find copies of all necessary permit application forms.

19. 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. Visit the Building Forms page to find permit application forms.

20. Can I construct a carport instead of a garage?

No.

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Building - Residential Permits

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1. What is needed for residential permits?

If you are doing the work, then you may secure the permit. If a contractor is doing the work, it is recommended that the contractor secure the permit for your protection. All contractors must be registered by the City.

Permits are issued from the Building Department at Brooklyn City Hall, Monday through Friday, 8 to 11: 45 am and 1 to 4:15 pm (excluding holidays).

Visit the Building Forms page for all permit application forms, and view the Fee Schedule (PDF) to learn more about the fees entailed. For fees not listed, and all commercial and industrial work, please contact the Building Department at 216-635-4203 for information on applicable permit fees.

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Building - Swimming Pools

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1. What size pool needs a permit to install?

All permanent and seasonally erected pools need a permit from the Building Department. Obtain copies of permit applications from the Building Forms page.

2. What is the first thing I need to do to obtain a pool permit?

Take the following to the Building Department at 7619 Memphis Avenue:

• Plot plan
• The paperwork that comes with your pool, pump and filter

Please have your name, address and day time phone number attached to the plot plan.

3. What is a plot plan?

A plot plan is a ’birds-eye’ view of your yard showing the following:

1. Your house
2. Your garage
3. Any other structures on your property
4. The location of the proposed above ground swimming pool
5. Where the fence is located
6. The distances from the outside of the pool to the fence, garage, house, etc.
7. Location of where the electrical receptacle will be for the pool pump/filter
8. Location and approximate height of any overhead wiring from the pole to the house or from the house to the garage
   1. Note: do not physically measure the height of these wires

4. When should I apply for my permit?

Please apply a minimum of 6 weeks prior to the swimming pool season. If a Zoning Variance is required it may take 2 to 6 weeks to have your request heard, depending on the timing of your application.

5. Can the pool be placed in the front or side yard?

No, not without seeking a Zoning Variance.

6. Can I put the pool at the rear or side yard property line(s)? How far must the pool be from my house and garage?

The pool shall be a minimum of 10 feet from the house, rear, and side yard property lines. This requirement may be reduced if a Zoning Variance is granted. The pool should be kept as far from the garage as possible to allow for rescue, pool maintenance, and to discourage jumping or diving from the garage roof.

7. Is a permit needed for the pool pump / filter electricity?

Yes. Obtain copies of permit applications on the Building Forms page.

8. Can I use the receptacle in my garage for the pool pump / filter?

Yes, if it conforms to the current National Electrical Code. A minimum of 2 receptacles are required: 1 for pool equipment, and a convenience receptacle a minimum of 10 feet from the pool. For more information, contact the Building Department by calling 216-635-4203.

9. The power lines from the pole to my house will be close to or above the pool, what should I do?

Supply a plot plan showing the location of the power lines and other requirements, then contact the Building Department by calling 216-635-4201.

10. 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 and public streets. Such lights shall be turned off after 11 pm until morning if within 200 feet of a dwelling.

11. Is a fence required for my pool?

Yes, and it needs to adhere to the following:

1. The (Building Department approved) fence shall have a minimum height of 4 feet.
2. It shall completely enclose the surrounding pool area.
   1. 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 and 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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General

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1. Does the Mayor perform marriage ceremonies?

No.

2. What is NOPEC?

NOPEC stands for Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council. The City of Brooklyn is a member of this conglomerate. You may reach NOPEC at 888-848-7914 and can visit the NOPEC website for more information.

3. Does the Mayor preside over Mayor’s Court?

No, we have a magistrate.

4. Who is my Councilperson?

All our Council people are elected "at-large." You may contact any one of them with your questions and needs; to find the appropriate contact information, visit the City Council page in our directory.

5. What is the phone number to the Post Office?

The Post Office phone number is 216-398-9792.

6. What is the phone number to the Brooklyn Library?

You can reach the Brooklyn Library by calling 216-398-4600.

7. Does the City have any rooms to rent for parties or events?

Yes! Please visit our Room Rentals page to learn more.

8. How do I know if I am registered to vote?

Please contact the Board of Elections at 216-443-3200.

9. What are the hours of operation for City Hall?

City Hall’s typical hours are Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm, excluding holidays.

10. Can I reserve the gazebo on the corner of Biddulph and Ridge?

The gazebo on the corner of Biddulph and Ridge is a public park; therefore there are no reservations. It is a first come, first served basis.

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Home - FAQs

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

Answer goes here...

2. How do I get a new trash can lid?

Answer goes here...

3. How do I apply for a job with the City?

Answer goes here...

4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

Answer goes here...

5. How do I get a garage sale permit?

Answer goes here...

6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

Answer goes here...

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Mayor's Court

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1. Will the Mayor be hearing my case at the Mayor's Court?

No. The court is presided over by the Magistrate who decides the cases.

2. How can I find out when my court date is?

The court date is noted on the bottom right hand corner of the citation. For any other questions regarding a court date, please contact the Clerk of Courts office by calling 216-635-4255 or 216-635-4245 during the hours of 8 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday.

3. Can I change my court date?

Everyone is entitled to one continuance. The fee for a continuance is $5. Deadline for continuance is Tuesday by 4 pm prior to your court date. This fee can be paid in cash only.

4. How can I receive a continuance for my case?

You must appear at the Clerk of Courts office located at 7619 Memphis Avenue and sign a form requesting a continuance. Once you receive a continuance, your court appearance is now mandatory.

5. What methods of payment are acceptable?

We accept:

• Cash
• Checks (not out of state)
• Debit cards with the MasterCard or Visa logo
• MasterCard
• Visa

Note: continuances are cash only.

6. When is the waiver amount due?

You can pay your waiverable ticket up to the day before court in person at the Clerk of Courts office or mail the ticket and waiver at least 10 days prior to your court date to:
7619 Memphis Avenue
Brooklyn, OH 44144

Your court date is located at the bottom right of your citation.

7. What is the cost of the citation?

Costs of the citations can be found on the Waiver Schedule (PDF).

8. Who is the Magistrate and Prosecutor?

The Magistrate is Vince Ruffa, and the Prosecutor is Jim McDonnell.

9. What are your hours of operation?

Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm.

10. Where do I send my payment?

On the reverse side of the citation is our address:
7619 Memphis Avenue
Brooklyn, OH 44144

11. Who should I make the check payable to?

Make it out to "City of Brooklyn".

12. What is the telephone number for Juvenile Court?

The address and telephone number is on the citation. For reference:
1910 Carnegie Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44115
Phone: 216-443-3425

13. What is the telephone number for Parma Municipal Court?

The address is located on the citation. For reference:
5555 Powers Boulevard
Parma, OH 44129
Phone: 440-887-7400

14. Is my citation waiverable?

Most traffic citations are waiverable; consult the Waiver Schedule (PDF) to find out if yours is or is not.

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Police - Animal Control

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1. I found a deceased animal. What should I do?

Animal Control does not remove any deceased animals. Please contact the Brooklyn Service garage for removal at 216-635-4232. If the animal is on your property, you must bag and set it on the tree lawn for pick up. If the animal is a dog or a cat, you are encouraged to leave a description of the animal with Animal Control to document in case it is a missing pet.

2. Who do I call with an animal related complaint or concern?

If the situation needs immediate attention, such as an animal in distress, then call the Police Department’s non-emergency number at 216-749-1234. Anytime something does not seem right, it is better to be wrong then do nothing.

If you would like to place a complaint on an animal, please contact the Animal Control Officer and leave the nature of the complaint, the exact number address of where the animal lives, and your contact information.

3. Does my dog need a license every year?

Yes, per Ohio and City law, a county dog license must be obtained by January 31st of each year. You can get them at the County Kennel, the County Administration office or online and at Drug Mart.

4. Does my cat or dog need a rabies vaccination?

Yes, per Ohio and City law, a rabies vaccine is required for all dogs and cats over the age of 3 months. The initial vaccine is good for 1 year and then every 3 years from then on.

5. Are cats allowed to roam free in the City?

No, cats are considered at large just like a dog would be when off of their property, unaccompanied by an owner and off-leash. The City’s Animals Running at Large Ordinance, 505.11, applies to both cats and dogs equally.

6. Does the City handle nuisance wildlife? Can I as a resident set a wildlife trap?

We have an ordinance prohibiting the trapping of wildlife by residents. Why is this? In compliance with the Ohio Division of Wildlife (ODNR), any trapped raccoon, skunk or opossum must either be euthanized or released on site. Those are the only two legal options for these animals; there is no relocating! Residents cannot humanely euthanize animals, and Animal Control does not offer this service.

The reason for this is euthanizing the animal will not fix the issue; unless the attractant is removed, more wildlife will come! In almost all cases, nuisance wildlife issues will solve themselves with correct guidance. Please leave Animal Control a voicemail at 216-635-4291 for more information.

7. What about sick or injured wildlife?

If the animal is one that the Lake Erie Nature and Science Center can attempt to rehabilitate, then they are taken there. Otherwise, for others that they do not handle or are too far gone from disease or injury, the Animal Control Officer will humanely euthanize them.

8. I have lost or found a pet, what should I do?

If you have lost or found a pet, please contact the Animal Control Officer and leave a description of the animal, where the animal was found or missing from, and your contact information. If the animal is sick or injured, please call the Police Department’s non-emergency number at 216-749-1234.

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Senior Center

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1. How old do you have to be to join the Senior Center?

55 years of age and older.

2. How much is your membership?

Free to Brooklyn residents. Non-resident membership is $12. There is a small fee for some of our classes.

3. How do you join the Senior Center?

Just come in.

4. Do you have transportation?

Yes, the Senior Bus. Visit the Transportation page to learn more about hours of operation, rules, etc.

5. Where will the bus take you?

The bus takes you to:

• Doctor appointments in Brooklyn; we go as far as the:
  • Metro Hospital Main Campus
  • Parmatown area
  • Snow Road Metro Hospital and the surrounding medical buildings
• Hair appointments, banking, and grocery shopping in Brooklyn
• Recreation center
• Senior center

6. What are the hours for the bus?

For the most current hours and schedules for the Senior Bus, visit the Transportation page.

7. Do I need to make an appointment to ride on the bus?

Yes. Please call at least 24 hours in advance.

8. What is the cost?

$1 each way.

9. What number do I call to make my appointment to use the bus?

Call the Senior Center Department at 216-635-4222.

10. Do you have meals program?

Yes, we have a Homebound Meal Program. Currently there is a waiting list. Please call the Senior Center Department at 216-635-4222 to inquire.