Columbus Contractor Registration (2026): Requirements & Cost
General Contractor Registration (City Code Ch. 4114)
Issued by City of Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services · (614) 645-7433
Fees
- Registration$300
Exam: Not required. No exam for the Columbus commercial General Contractor registration. (The separate Home Improvement General Contractor license requires the Ohio 767 exam.)
Experience: Not required. No experience requirement stated for the commercial GC registration under Columbus City Code Chapter 4114.
Bond: $25,000 surety bond required. A bond in the amount of $25,000 (2026 General Contractor application). Source
Insurance: General liability: $300,000 per person / $500,000 per occurrence. City of Columbus Building and Zoning Services as certificate holder (2026 General Contractor application). Source
Ohio issues no state-level GC license; Columbus registers GCs under City Code Ch. 4114. The 2026 application requires a $25,000 bond and general liability of $300,000 per person / $500,000 per occurrence.
How to get licensed in Columbus
- Obtain the required insurance coverage and provide a certificate.
- Secure the required surety bond.
- Submit your application and fees to City of Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a general contractor registration in Columbus?
Yes. Columbus requires a general contractor registration through the City of Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services.
How much does a contractor registration cost in Columbus?
The registration fee is $300.
Is an exam required for a Columbus contractor registration?
No, Columbus does not require an exam for this registration.
Do I need a bond for a Columbus contractor registration?
Yes, a $25,000 surety bond is required.
Next steps
You know the requirements for general contractors in Ohio— here's how to actually pass and apply.
Sources
Related pages
Last verified 2026-06-10 · Operator-verified