OH HB372

Establishes a five-member state board of building appeals in the department of commerce with members appointed by the governor, including an attorney, registered architect, professional engineer, fire prevention officer, and plumbing/pipefitting professional.

Allows the board of building standards to certify municipal and county boards of building appeals to hear appeals from building code enforcement orders, with certified local boards having exclusive jurisdiction over their respective jurisdictions.

Creates expedited appeal procedures allowing parties to request expedited hearings that must commence within one day and be held within five days of the request, or within three days for follow-up hearings after a continuance.

Sets expedited appeal fees at one thousand dollars and allows expedited hearings to be conducted via teleconference, video conference, or other electronic technology with twenty-four-hour notice to parties.

Requires boards to consider architectural and historical significance when granting variances or exemptions from building code requirements.