Development Guide

Building in West Carrollton

Whether you’re developing a new commercial property, redeveloping an existing site, or expanding your business, the City of West Carrollton is committed to making the development process as clear and efficient as possible. This guide outlines the typical steps involved in commercial development and identifies the City departments that will assist you throughout the process.

Before You Begin

Not every project follows the same path. Depending on your proposal, you may need rezoning, site plan approval, engineering review, permits, or public improvements. We encourage developers to contact the Economic Development office early in the planning process so we can help coordinate with the appropriate City departments.

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Meet with Economic Development to discuss your project.

During this stage, you can:

• Discuss your development goals
• Identify potential sites
• Review zoning requirements
• Determine the approval process
• Connect with City departments

Assistant City Manager Dan Wendt

• Phone: (937) 847-4633
• Email: [email protected]
• Address:
  300 E. Central Ave.
  West Carrollton, OH 45449

Step 2: Zoning & Land Use Review

The Planning & Community Development Department reviews proposed developments to ensure they comply with the City’s zoning regulations and long-term planning objectives.

Depending on the project, this may include:

• Rezoning
• Conditional Use Permits
• Variances
• Lot splits or consolidations

Online Zoning Certificate Application

Planning & Community Development

• Phone: (937) 859-5783
• Email: [email protected]
• Fax: (937) 859-3366
• Address:
  300 E. Central Ave.
  West Carrollton, OH 45449

Step 3: Site Plan Review

Commercial development projects typically require a site plan review. Planning & Community Development will review the plans and coordinate comments across departments.

Plans may include:

• Building layout
• Parking
• Landscaping
• Lighting
• Access drives
• Stormwater management
• Utilities

Planning & Community Development

• Phone: (937) 859-5783
• Email: [email protected]
• Fax: (937) 859-3366
• Address:
  300 E. Central Ave.
  West Carrollton, OH 45449

Step 4: Engineering Review

Engineering staff reviews projects for compliance with City standards.

This may include:

• Water and sanitary sewer
• Storm drainage
• Roadway improvements
• Utility connections
• Traffic impacts
• Public infrastructure

Step 5: Building Permits

Once approvals have been completed, building permits may be submitted. Additional inspections will occur throughout construction.

Permits may include:

• Building
• Electrical
• Mechanical
• Plumbing
• Fire

Planning & Community Development

• Phone: (937) 859-5783
• Email: [email protected]
• Fax: (937) 859-3366
• Address:
  300 E. Central Ave.
  West Carrollton, OH 45449

Fire Department

• Fire Administration: (937) 847-4645
• Email: [email protected]
• Fire Administration Offices: 
  300 E. Central Ave.
  West Carrollton, OH 45449

Step 6: Construction & Inspections

Throughout construction, City inspectors work with contractors to ensure work complies with approved plans and applicable codes. Inspections may occur at various stages until the project is complete.

Step 7: Certificate of Occupancy

Once all required inspections have been completed and approvals have been received, a Certificate of Occupancy may be issued, allowing the business or development to open.

Public Improvements

Some developments may require public infrastructure improvements, including:

• Sidewalks
• Streets
• Waterlines
• Sanitary sewer
• Storm sewer
• Traffic signals
• Utility relocation

Requirements vary based on the scope and location of each project.

Typical Development Timeline

Every project is unique, and timelines vary depending on project size, complexity, and required approvals.

Typical milestones include:

• Initial Consultation
• Planning & Zoning Review
• Site Plan Approval
• Engineering Review
• Permit Review
• Construction
• Final Inspections
• Certificate of Occupancy

(Specific timelines can be discussed during the initial consultation.)

Working With the City

The City of West Carrollton is committed to working collaboratively with developers, property owners, and businesses throughout every stage of the development process. Early communication helps identify requirements, streamline reviews, and keep projects moving efficiently.

Have Questions?

Contact the Economic Development office to discuss your project or schedule an initial consultation.

Assistant City Manager Dan Wendt

• Phone: (937) 847-4633
• Email: [email protected]
• Address:
  300 E. Central Ave.
  West Carrollton, OH 45449