Dayton, OH

Rules, permits & lead paint in Dayton

Minor and Major COAs, EPA lead rules and Ohio licensing.

Dayton historic zoning, lead paint and Ohio licensing

Historic districts and landmarks

Dayton has 13 locally designated historic districts and more than 70 local landmarks. Exterior repairs or changes there need a Certificate of Appropriateness first.

Minor COA for repainting

Painting surfaces that are already painted is a Minor COA. The city says these are typically issued the same day by staff, and there is no fee.

Major COA for unpainted surfaces

Painting surfaces that were never painted, such as bare brick or stone, needs a Major COA, which goes to the Landmark Commission.

Federal EPA lead rules

Ohio does not run its own renovation program, so the EPA’s federal rule applies. Paid work that disturbs paint in pre-1978 homes needs an EPA-certified firm and renovator.

No state license for painters

The Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board covers specific commercial trades, not painting. Check local registration in Dayton or the suburb, and ask for insurance.

This is general orientation, not legal advice. Confirm with the agency named before work starts.

Painter at work on an interior wall
Stock photo (Pexels, Joshuan Barboza). Not a project by any painter we refer.

Dayton painting questions

Do I need approval to repaint in a Dayton historic district?

Yes. Repainting already painted surfaces needs a Minor Certificate of Appropriateness. The city says these are typically same-day and free.

Can I paint the brick on my house in a historic district?

Painting unpainted surfaces needs a Major COA from the Landmark Commission. Ask city staff before you plan on it.

Is lead paint likely in my house?

Very likely if it was built before 1978. Use an EPA-certified firm for any paint disturbance.

When can exterior painting start?

Usually in May, once nights stay mild, and it runs until early October.

Do you cover Oakwood and Kettering?

Yes. Independent painters across the Miami Valley can respond. Those suburbs have their own permit rules.

How many painters will contact me?

Best Price is shared with up to 5 painters, Fastest Start goes to 3–5 and Top Quality usually goes to 2.

Describe your project

Free for homeowners, no obligation. Choose Best Price (shared with up to 5 painters), Fastest Start (3–5) or Top Quality (usually 2).

Painting Quote Request (FJL)

Step 1 of 3 · free estimates · takes about a minute

Step 2 of 3 · Project details for an accurate price

Only property type is required — share what you know.

Have photos? Great — the painter who contacts you can ask for them, or mention them in your notes.

Step 3 of 3 · Where should painters reach you?

Your details only go to the painter(s) matched to your request.

Choosing Best Price? Expect a few calls, texts or emails from local painters.

paintingindayton.com is a free referral service, not a painting contractor. Painters who respond are independent businesses; check licensing, insurance and references before you hire. We do not write reviews or rate painters.