If you’re planning a kitchen remodel in Columbus, one of the first questions that usually comes up is: Does my project require a permit? The answer usually depends on what the renovation includes and how far the work goes.
Some kitchen projects can move forward without city approval, while others must be reviewed and inspected by Columbus Building and Zoning Services. Knowing where your project falls early in the planning stage helps avoid delays, unexpected costs, and problems when it comes time to sell the home.
As a Columbus-based residential renovation contractor, we help homeowners navigate permit requirements every day. From kitchen reno checklists to how to save your countertops while updating cabinetry, we’re the experts in residential renovations across central Ohio. Here is how to think about permits before your kitchen remodel gets underway.
When You Need A Permit To Remodel
A permit is typically required in Columbus when a kitchen remodel involves changes to the home’s structure or major building systems. These are the types of updates the city wants reviewed to confirm everything meets current safety and building codes.
You should expect to need a permit if your kitchen remodel includes:
- Removing, adding, or modifying walls
- Any work involving load-bearing structures
- Moving sinks, dishwashers, or water supply and drain lines
- Installing new electrical wiring or relocating outlets
- Adding new circuits or upgrading the electrical panel
- Installing, moving, or extending gas lines
- Changing ventilation or exhaust systems
If your remodel affects plumbing, electrical, gas, or framing behind the walls, a permit is required as part of the process. Even projects that feel straightforward can trigger permitting when utilities are relocated or systems are upgraded.
Why You’d Need A Permit For Kitchen Renovation
Permits exist to protect homeowners, future buyers, and the surrounding community. In Columbus, permitted work is reviewed and inspected to ensure it meets current building, electrical, and plumbing codes.
From a homeowner’s perspective, proper permitting helps with:
- Confirming work is installed safely and correctly
- Reducing the risk of electrical, plumbing, or gas issues
- Preventing stop-work orders during construction
- Avoiding complications during resale or refinancing
- Supporting insurance claims if a problem arises later
Unpermitted work can create real challenges. If an issue is discovered during an inspection or home sale, the city may require retroactive permits, additional inspections, or even removal of completed work. Addressing permits upfront is almost always easier and more cost-effective.
What Kitchen Changes Don’t Require A Permit
Many kitchen updates can be completed without a permit when the layout, structure, and utilities remain in place. These projects are generally considered cosmetic or surface-level improvements.
In most cases, a permit isn’t required for:
- Replacing cabinets in the same footprint
- Installing new countertops
- Adding new flooring such as tile, hardwood, or LVP
- Painting walls or cabinets
- Installing or updating a backsplash
- Replacing appliances using existing electrical, gas, and water connections
- Swapping light fixtures without modifying wiring
To make things even easier for Columbus locals, the City of Columbus has a checklist outlining when you do or don’t need a permit for common changes. For example, you do need a permit to replace a window – but you don’t need one to replace your flooring. Replacing an exterior door needs a permit, but installing cabinets doesn’t.
Even with permit-free projects, it is still smart to confirm requirements before starting. Some homes, including historic properties or condos, may have additional rules that apply.
Kitchen Remodeling Ideas For Your Project
You may be wondering: is a kitchen remodel worth it? Usually. According to the Journal of Light Construction’s 2025 Cost vs. Value report, you can recoup 113% value from a minor kitchen remodel that includes refinishing your cabinetry, replacing your appliances and refreshing your floors. For major kitchen projects, you can expect to recoup 51% value for modernizing your kitchen’s floorplan along with other major updates.
Whether you are planning a modest update or a full renovation, there are plenty of ways to improve function and style while staying aligned with your goals and timeline.
Popular kitchen remodeling ideas include:
- Cabinet replacements or refacing to improve storage and layout (check out our 12 ways to upgrade your kitchen cabinets for more ideas!)
- Quartz, granite, or solid surface countertops for durability
- Improved task lighting and under-cabinet lighting
- Updated appliances that match existing hookups
- Pantry upgrades and built-in storage solutions
For homeowners planning larger changes such as open layouts, island sinks, gas ranges, or custom ventilation, permits are usually required. With proper planning, these upgrades can be coordinated smoothly without slowing the project down.
Get In Touch With Columbus’s Premier Renovation Team
Permit requirements can feel confusing, especially when every project is a little different. Our team handles permit review, applications, inspections, and coordination as part of the renovation process, so nothing falls through the cracks.
If you are considering a kitchen remodel in Columbus, CORE Renovations is happy to review your plans, explain what permits may be required, and help you move forward with confidence. Reach out today to start planning a kitchen renovation that is well-designed, code-compliant, and built to last.
