Planning and Zoning


The Planning and Zoning Department is responsible for overseeing community development and growth while ensuring the promotion of the Village Comprehensive Plan.  The Village of Hanover is known for its small-town rural character and strong historic roots. The Planning and Zoning Department understands the important desire of Hanover residents to preserve the small-town rural feel of the community and are dedicated to maintaining this with focus on the Comprehensive Plan and compliance with Zoning Code and Development Standards.  The department is also responsible for the review and approval of development plans, for the issuance of zoning permits, general inspections for compliance, enforcement of zoning and other pertain ordinances, and supporting businesses, residents, and property owners as they embark on construction and improvement projects.

Zoning Permits:

Do I need a permit? The usual answer is yes, but if in doubt call before you start! The Village of Hanover Zoning Code states that “no building or other structure shall be erected, moved, added to, structurally altered, nor shall any building, structure, or land be established or changed in use without a permit, therefore, issued by the zoning inspector”. If you plan on constructing, altering, repairing, or changing structures or the land use, you will need a permit prior to the start of work. Most residential zoning permits are handled locally through the Village office and online application process. Refer to link below “Online Permit Application Portal”

Construction of any commercial building/structure or any building/structure used for commercial purposes to include an existing building changing their use or ownership shall have a Certificate of Zoning Compliance (issued by the Village) and a Certificate of Occupancy (issued by Licking County Building Code Dept.) The Village of Hanover partners with the Licking County Building Code Department to manage building permits and inspections for commercial projects. Before applying for a building permit from Licking County Building Code Department, a Village “Certificate of Zoning Compliance” must be obtained. Refer to link below “Commercial Building

Common uses that require an approved permit:

  • Accessory Building (Shed permanent & non-permanent)
  • Addition- Residential
  • Addition - Commercial
  • Auxiliary Dwelling Unit
  • Certificate of Zoning Compliance
  • Development Application – Concept Plan Thru Final Plan
  • Conditional Use
  • Deck, Patio, Porch, Gazabo, or Carport
  • Demolition
  • Driveway / Culvert / Expansion
  • Driveway Addition - Residential
  • Fence / Walls
  • Floodplain Development
  • Garage and Pole Barn
  • Lot Split
  • Major Subdivision Plan Application
  • Map Amendment / Rezoning
  • Minor Subdivision Plan Application
  • Mobile Food Vendor
  • New Construction - Residential
  • Right of Way
  • Replat
  • Sewer Tap Install Application
  • Short-Term Rental Permit (2-year expiration)
  • Sign - Permanent
  • Sign – Temporary
  • Solar Panel Install
  • Swimming Pool
  • Temporary Activity Permit
  • Variance
  • Wireless/Cell Tower/Antenna
  • Zoning Appeal

The Planning and Zoning Department look forward to assisting you with your development, construction or improvement projects.

Online Permit Application Portal

Zoning & Commercial Building Procedures

Zoning, Development, & Flood Zone Regulations

Fee Schedule

Zoning Maps 2025

Comprehensive Land Use Plan

Active Transportation Plan

Transit Annual Report

2023-7-25 LCATS Hanover High St Final Report