Research by DoINeedAPermit Research Team · Updated May 2026
The Short Answer
Full roof replacements, tear-offs, and material changes require a permit from the City of Medina Building Department. Repairs under 25% of roof area may be exempt, but the majority of roof work needs a pull.
Medina's building code adoption follows the 2017 International Building Code with Ohio amendments, and the city enforces IRC R907 (reroofing) strictly — meaning any tear-off-and-replace, full-coverage replacement, or roof material change (shingles to metal/tile) triggers a permit requirement. What sets Medina apart from neighboring communities like Brunswick or Wadsworth is the city's in-house inspection model: all re-roof inspections are conducted by Medina's own building staff, not third-party agencies, which means faster turnaround (typically 1–3 weeks) and direct communication with the same inspector from deck review through final. Medina also requires documentation of existing roof layers before permit issuance — if more than two layers are detected, IRC R907.4 mandates complete tear-off (no overlay), and you cannot proceed without removal. The city's permit fee is typically $100–$250 depending on square footage, and owner-occupied residential re-roofs can be pulled by the homeowner under Ohio's owner-builder exemption, saving contractor markup. Climate context: Zone 5A with 32-inch frost depth means ice-and-water shield specifications are critical — Medina's inspectors verify proper underlayment extension 24 inches past the interior wall line to guard against ice dams, a common failure point in northern Ohio winters.

What happens if you skip the permit (and you needed one)

Medina roof replacement permits — the key details

Underlayment, fastening, and flashing specifications are the three details most commonly overlooked by DIY filers and result in rejections or failed inspections in Medina. IRC R905 (roof-covering requirements) and Medina's adoption require specific underlayment products by material: asphalt shingles need ice-and-water shield (minimum) plus 30-lb felt or synthetic underlayment; metal roofing requires non-perforated synthetic or 30-lb felt; tile requires non-perforated underlayment and secondary water barrier in high-moisture areas. When you file your permit, include the underlayment product name and specification sheet — a generic 'synthetic underlayment' is not sufficient. Fastening must also be documented: asphalt shingles are 4 nails per shingle (6 in high-wind zones), with fasteners 3/8 inch above the shingle cutline. Include this in your permit drawings or summary. Flashing is the third critical area: chimney flashing, valley flashing, and eaves flashing must be sealed with compatible roofing cement or sealant, and the inspector will test these during final inspection. Many re-roofing projects fail final because the contractor installed new shingles over old flashing or failed to seal the flashing properly. Work with your contractor to ensure these specs are in writing and on the permit drawings — this prevents costly revision cycles and delays.

Three Medina roof replacement scenarios

Scenario A
Full asphalt shingle re-roof, 32 squares, two-layer tearoff, 1.5-story ranch, unobstructed roof pitch 6:12 — typical Medina neighborhood
A standard full roof replacement on a typical single-family home in Medina requires a permit. Your 1.5-story ranch (approximately 1,600–1,800 sq ft) has 32 squares of roof area — definitely a full replacement triggering IRC R907.3. You submit a permit application to the City of Medina Building Department with a simple roof sketch (dimensions, pitch, and square footage), documentation that the existing roof is two layers (photo or roofer's inspection report), and the contractor's license number (if hiring) or your owner-builder contact info (if doing it yourself as the property owner). The permit fee is $100–$150 base, plus $50 per inspection (rough and final), total $200–$250. Once approved (typically 3–5 business days), your roofer or you begin tear-off. The rough inspection is called when the deck is exposed — the Medina inspector checks for rotted boards (common in older Medina homes), nailing patterns on any deck patches, and verifies ice-and-water shield placement: at least 24 inches up from the interior wall line to prevent ice-dam leaks during Ohio winters. Assuming the deck is sound, the rough passes in one visit. New underlayment (ice-and-water shield plus 30-lb felt), shingles, and flashing are installed. The final inspection is scheduled when the roof is complete: the inspector verifies shingle fastening (4 nails per shingle, 3/8 inch above the cutline), flashing seals at chimney and valleys, and clearance from tree branches. Assuming no surprises (rotted fascia, improper flashing), the final passes and the permit is signed off. Total timeline: 2–3 weeks from permit to final sign-off. Total costs: $200–$250 permit, plus labor and materials (typically $6,000–$12,000 installed, depending on contractor and material grade).
Permit required | $100–$150 base + $100 inspections | Rough + final inspections | Ice-and-water shield to 24 in. from interior wall | 4 nails per shingle, 3/8 in. above cutline | Deck patch fastening verified | Total project $6,200–$12,250
Scenario B
Upgrade from 3-tab asphalt to architectural metal roof, 28 squares, existing two-layer shingle, three-layer tearoff due to old tar paper — Queen Anne colonial, Medina historic district overlay
Material change (asphalt to metal) and three-layer tearoff make this a complex permit requiring structural review and special attention to historic-district compliance. Your Queen Anne colonial sits in Medina's historic district overlay (if applicable in your area — confirm with zoning), which adds architectural review to your permit application. You discover during pre-roof inspection that the existing roof has three layers: original slate underneath (now deteriorated), tar paper, and 3-tab shingles. IRC R907.4 mandates complete tear-off — you cannot overlay. You file a permit application with: (1) roof plan showing dimensions and pitch; (2) product specs for the metal roofing (color, gauge, fastener schedule); (3) structural engineer's report confirming the framing can handle metal weight (typically 1.5–3 psf, vs. 2–3 psf for asphalt, so usually approved); (4) if in a historic district, architectural approval sketch showing the metal profile and color are compatible with district guidelines. The permit fee is $150–$200 base, plus $100 for plan review (structural and possibly historic), plus $100 for inspections, total $350–$400. Review time is 2–3 weeks (vs. 3–5 days for a standard shingle re-roof) due to structural and historic review. Once approved, tear-off begins: the roofer removes shingles, tar paper, and slate (hazmat disposal if asbestos is suspected — add $500–$1,000). Deck inspection confirms sound framing; any rotted boards are noted for replacement. Ice-and-water shield is installed (24 inches past interior wall) plus synthetic underlayment (required for metal). Metal roofing fastening is verified in the rough inspection: fasteners must be placed in the manufacturer's dimple or seam location, not random, per metal-roofing standards. Final inspection confirms all seams are sealed, ridge and valley terminations are proper, and flashing (chimney, valleys) is sealed and compatible with metal finish. Metal roofing is durable but requires proper installation — a failed seam can leak for years. Timeline: 3–4 weeks from filing to final, due to structural and design review. Total costs: $350–$400 permit, plus $8,000–$15,000 for metal roofing material and labor (metal is premium vs. asphalt).
Permit required | Three-layer tearoff mandatory | Structural engineer report ($300–$800) | Medina historic-district architectural review if applicable | $150–$200 base + $200 plan/inspection | Metal product specs required | Synthetic underlayment + ice-and-water | Fastener sealing per manufacturer spec | Total project $8,650–$16,200
Scenario C
Partial roof repair, 8 squares, isolated wind damage to southeast slope, same 3-tab shingles, no tearoff — Cape Cod, repair-vs-reroofing gray area
This scenario illustrates the most common gray area in Medina roof permits: when is a repair exempt, and when does it trigger a reroofing permit? You have wind damage on one slope of your Cape Cod (estimated 8 squares out of ~28 total). That is approximately 29% of the roof — over the 25% threshold — but it is localized repair, not full reroofing. Your contractor quotes a patch-and-repair approach: remove damaged shingles, replace with new 3-tab (like-for-like), re-nail deck if needed, seal flashings. You call the City of Medina Building Department to ask: is this a permit-exempt repair or a permit-required reroofing? The answer depends on Medina's interpretation of 'reroofing vs. repair.' The code says: repairs under 25% are typically exempt, and replacement of fewer than 10 squares with like-for-like material is often considered repair, not reroofing. However, if the damaged area encompasses valley flashings, chimney flashing, or requires deck replacement, the city may consider it reroofing (triggering permit). You should submit a pre-application inquiry with photos showing the damage scope, the roof pitch, and the existing condition. Medina's building staff will typically respond in 1–2 business days with a determination. Most likely outcome: if damage is isolated to shingles and minor flashing (not structural), it is exempt, and you can proceed without a permit. If the wind damage extends to the deck, fascia, or involves chimney re-flashing, the city will require a permit because the scope crosses into reroofing territory. Assuming it is exempt repair: you hire a roofer and proceed without filing. Cost: $2,000–$4,000 labor and material, $0 permit fees. Assuming it does require a permit (due to flashing or deck work): you file a standard permit application, pay $100–$150 plus inspections, and follow the rough/final inspection process (timeline 2–3 weeks). The key lesson: when in doubt, call Medina Building Department before starting — a 5-minute pre-application conversation saves thousands in potential rework or fines.
Permit requirement unclear — preapplication call recommended | Likely exempt if isolated shingle/flashing repair | Permit required if deck or structural repair | Like-for-like 3-tab replacement typically exempt if under 10 squares | Repair vs. reroofing threshold: 25% of roof area | 5-minute city inquiry saves risk | Total if exempt $2,000–$4,000 | Total if permit required $2,100–$4,150

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Ice-and-water shield requirements in Medina's Zone 5A climate

Medina sits in IECC Climate Zone 5A with a 32-inch frost depth and average winter temperatures dropping to 0°F — conditions that demand ice dams as a primary design consideration. IRC R905.1.1 (roof-covering requirements for cold climates) requires ice-and-water shield along eaves in areas where the average outdoor winter temperature is 35°F or below (Medina easily qualifies). However, Medina inspectors consistently require ice-and-water shield placement that extends at least 24 inches up from the interior wall line — going beyond the bare minimum of the IRC to account for local ice-dam patterns. This specification is not written in Medina code ordinance, but rather enforced through the city's understanding of regional winter failure modes: ice dams form when interior heat melts snow at the roof ridge, and meltwater refreezes at the unheated eave overhang. If the ice-and-water shield stops before the interior wall line, water can back up under the shingles and leak into the attic and wall cavity.

When you file your permit or discuss the project with Medina's inspectors, be prepared to specify your ice-and-water shield product by name and to show placement on the roof plan (or simply reference 'ice-and-water shield per IRC R905.1.1, minimum 24 inches from interior wall line'). The inspector will verify this during the rough inspection — if the underlayment is already installed when they arrive, they will measure from the eave to confirm 24-inch coverage. On a 1.5-story home with a typical 12-inch overhang, this means the shield extends from the eave nearly to the interior wall line of the second floor. Cost impact: ice-and-water shield adds $0.50–$1.00 per square foot (roughly $150–$300 for a 30-square roof), but it is worth the investment in a Zone 5A climate — ice-dam damage can cost $5,000–$15,000 to repair if water infiltrates walls and insulation.

Synthetic underlayment (perforated) is also permitted in Medina, and many modern roofers prefer it over 30-lb felt because it does not absorb moisture and tears less during installation. However, if you use perforated synthetic underlayment, you must still layer ice-and-water shield at the eaves; the two products work together. Some installers mistakenly think synthetic alone is sufficient, but Medina's inspectors will catch this and require ice-and-water shield to be added during re-inspection. Plan your materials carefully and communicate this to your contractor in writing before work begins.

Deck repair and hidden costs in Medina's older housing stock

Medina's housing stock includes significant numbers of 1920s–1970s homes with original or early-replacement roof framing. When you tear off an old roof, deck damage is common, especially in homes where previous re-roofing hid water intrusion for years. The city's rough inspection is designed to catch this: the inspector visually examines the deck (plywood or boards) for soft spots, discoloration, mold, or obvious rot. In Medina's climate, east-facing and north-facing roofs are most vulnerable to moisture trapping and fungal growth. Rotted boards must be replaced as a condition of permit approval — you cannot patch over rot or apply sealant and proceed. This work triggers structural modification and additional costs that blindside many homeowners during re-roofing.

Budget a 10–15% contingency for deck repair on any Medina re-roof. If the rough inspection reveals 4–6 rotted boards (common), expect $500–$1,500 in replacement labor and materials. If more extensive rot is found — for example, plywood deterioration from a previous roof leak — you may need structural rafter or truss repair, which requires a structural engineer's report and can cost $2,000–$5,000. The good news: Medina's inspection process catches this before the new roof is installed, preventing the new roof from trapping moisture in a decaying deck. The bad news: your project timeline extends (rafter repair adds 1–2 weeks) and your budget balloons. Communicate with your roofer beforehand: ask them to do a pre-roof inspection (many offer this free or for $100–$200) and to provide a written estimate for any deck repair. This estimate, even if preliminary, keeps surprises to a minimum.

Fascia and soffit damage is another common hidden cost on Medina homes. When the deck and rafters are exposed during tear-off, rotted fascia boards are often discovered (water intrusion from old gutters or ice dams). Fascia replacement may be required before re-roofing, as IRC R905.2 (asphalt shingle installation) assumes a sound substrate. Budget $300–$800 for fascia replacement on a typical 1.5-story home (roughly 120–150 linear feet).

City of Medina Building Department
City of Medina, City Hall, Medina, Ohio 44256
Phone: 330-764-XXXX (verify current number with city website) | https://www.medina-oh.gov (check 'Building & Permits' or 'Online Services' for permit portal)
Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (subject to local holidays and closures; confirm on city website)

Common questions

Do I need a permit for a roof repair (not a full replacement)?

It depends on scope. Repairs under 25% of the roof area and involving fewer than 10 squares are typically exempt from permitting in Medina, especially if they are like-for-like (same material) and do not involve structural work. However, if the repair crosses the 25% threshold, involves flashing replacement, or requires deck work, Medina may classify it as reroofing and require a permit. Call the City of Medina Building Department before starting to confirm your specific project — a quick preapplication conversation takes 5 minutes and can save thousands in potential rework or fines.

What if I find three layers of roofing when I tear off the old roof?

IRC R907.4 (which Medina enforces) mandates complete tear-off if three or more layers exist. You cannot overlay in this case — the three-layer condition must be remedied by removal. This is why Medina inspectors ask for documentation of existing layers before permit issuance: they want to know if you will hit the three-layer rule. If you discover a third layer during tear-off, stop work and contact the city to amend your permit (typically a 1-day process). The good news: full tear-off ensures a sound, dry substrate for your new roof.

How much does a roof permit cost in Medina?

Base permit fee is typically $75–$150, plus $50–$100 per inspection (rough and final, so $100–$200 for two inspections). Total is usually $200–$350 for a standard full re-roof. Material changes (shingles to metal/tile) may add a structural plan-review fee of $50–$100. Confirm exact fees with the City of Medina Building Department, as fees are subject to annual updates. Owner-builders do not save on permit fees, but they do save on contractor markup if they pull the permit themselves.

Can I do my own roof replacement as an owner-builder in Medina?

Yes, Ohio's owner-builder exemption allows owner-occupied residential homeowners to pull permits and perform work themselves, including roof replacement. You must own and occupy the home. You still need a permit (Medina requires it), and you must pass rough and final inspections. Many homeowners hire a roofer for installation while holding the permit themselves, which is allowed. If you are considering DIY installation (tear-off and new shingles), be aware this is physically demanding and error-prone — improper fastening or flashing sealing will fail inspection and require rework. Most homeowners hire a licensed roofer and pull the permit to save contractor markup.

What is the fastest timeline for a roof replacement permit in Medina?

Standard asphalt shingle re-roof (like-for-like, no structural work): 2–3 weeks from permit filing to final sign-off. This assumes quick plan review (3–5 days), quick work scheduling by your contractor, and no hidden deck damage. Material changes (shingles to metal/tile) or structural repairs: 3–4 weeks due to engineer review and potentially longer deck repair. Weather delays are common in Ohio — spring and fall work may be delayed by rain. Plan for 4+ weeks if you have a tight timeline.

Will my insurance cover roof damage if I do the work without a permit?

Many homeowners' policies will not cover damage to unpermitted roofing, especially if the damage is tied to installation defect or code violation. If a winter ice dam causes water damage to your new, unpermitted roof, the insurer may deny the claim, arguing you failed to follow code (ice-and-water shield placement, underlayment specs, etc.). Always pull a permit for roof replacement — the $200–$300 cost is trivial compared to the risk of a $10,000+ insurance denial.

What is ice-and-water shield, and why does Medina require 24 inches at the eave?

Ice-and-water shield is a self-adhesive synthetic underlayment that sticks to the roof deck and prevents water backup. In Medina's Zone 5A climate, ice dams form when interior heat melts snow, and meltwater backs up under shingles at the unheated eave. Standard ice-and-water shield (often 36 inches wide) is placed at the eave, and Medina inspectors verify it extends at least 24 inches up from the interior wall line to protect against this water backup. The 24-inch requirement is a local best practice that exceeds the bare IRC minimum and reflects Medina's experience with ice-dam failures. Cost: $0.50–$1.00 per square foot, or roughly $150–$300 for a 30-square roof. Worth every penny in northern Ohio.

What happens if my roof fails final inspection?

Common failures include improper fastening (wrong number or placement of nails), unsealed flashing at chimney or valleys, or deck issues (rot, soft spots). Medina gives you a list of defects and a deadline to fix them, typically 5–10 business days. Once corrections are made, you request a re-inspection (no additional fee for the first re-inspection). If you correct the issues and the second inspection passes, the permit is signed off. If the defects are major (structural damage, widespread rot), you may need a structural engineer's report before re-inspection. Most failures are minor (flashing sealing, nail counting) and are corrected in 1–2 days.

If I am in Medina's historic district overlay, do I need special approval for a roof replacement?

If your property is in Medina's historic district, architectural approval may be required before the building permit is issued. You would need to confirm the material, color, and profile of your replacement roof with the historic district commission or architectural review board. Metal roofing may require documentation that the color and profile are historically compatible; tile or slate is typically approved more easily. Check Medina's zoning map or historic-district guidelines (available on the city website) to determine if your property is overlay. If it is, budget an extra 1–2 weeks for architectural review and add $100–$200 to your permit process.

What should I include in my permit application?

Standard roof replacement application requires: (1) completed permit form (available from city or online); (2) roof sketch or plan showing dimensions, pitch, and square footage; (3) existing roof material and layer count (photo or roofer's inspection); (4) new roof material and product specs (brand, color, fastening schedule); (5) contractor license number (if hiring) or owner-builder certification (if self-pulling); (6) structural engineer report (if material change to tile/slate); (7) underlayment product name and spec (e.g., ice-and-water shield per IRC R905.1.1, 24 inches from interior wall, plus 30-lb felt). For simple like-for-like shingle replacements, items 1–5 are usually sufficient. Submit in person at City Hall, by mail, or online if the city portal supports it — confirm submission method with the Building Department.

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Roof Replacement Permits in Middletown, OH Roof Replacement Permits in Newark, OH Roof Replacement Permits in Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Disclaimer: This guide is based on research conducted in May 2026 using publicly available sources. Always verify current roof replacement permit requirements with the City of Medina Building Department before starting your project.

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