A Permit is required any time an individual or entity requests access to Cleveland Metroparks property for any purpose including performing physical work on improvements or conducting data collection.
Permit Process Overview:
Cleveland Metroparks' permit process starts with an Applicant completing a brief two-page Access Permit Request Form and submitting it with plans and supporting documents to the Park District’s Planning and Design Department. Depending on the request type and complexity, several departments within the Park District will review and provide input. Once that input is gathered, a response is sent to the Applicant. Revisions may be requested to limit impacts to the park whether it be from a natural resource, infrastructure, or park guest perspective. This evaluation process considers all details of the project and can result in the denial of the request, compensation for such a request, or certain requirements to limit the negative effects to Cleveland Metroparks.
The Applicant will be asked to execute the Park District’s standard access Permit with project related conditions to mitigate impacts or set compensation amounts. The Permit may also require the applicant to enter into a License Agreement or Easement if there are long term impacts or permanent improvements. Once executed by Cleveland Metroparks, the Permit is copied to all impacted departments and the Applicant. Permit requests are typically for public or quasi-public improvements/maintenance thereof, such as sewers, water lines, gas lines, electrical lines, roads and driveways, drainage controls, rights-of-way, culverts, bridges, due diligence investigations or similar projects.
There is a $100 review fee associated with each access Permit Request Form which will be charged at the time an application is submitted. Additional fees may be levied based upon the duration and nature of the request.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Please read through all steps of the process and instructions before starting an Access Permit Request Form, and if you have questions, reach out Chris Papp, Park District Civil Engineer, at [email protected] .
- Complete brief two-page Access Permit Request Form
- Required documentation includes: site location map, scope of work, detailed construction drawings and specifications, documentation of pre-existing real estate interests relating to the access request (i.e. easements, licenses, permits), and a certificate of insurance. Please see the Cleveland Metroparks Insurance Requirements document for information on what is required.
- Once completed, submit to Chris Papp, Park District Civil Engineer, at [email protected]
- Cleveland Metroparks will review the proposed work and provide feedback to the Applicant (typically within 10-15 business days)
- Cleveland Metroparks may request to meet with the Applicant to gather additional information on the requested Permit.
- Revisions to the proposed project may be requested until the scope of work and compensation (if applicable) are to the satisfaction of the Park District.
- Once the application is approved, the Applicant must execute the Park District's standard Permit
- If there are long-term impacts or permanent improvements, the Applicant may also be required to enter into a License Agreement or Easement Agreement with Cleveland Metroparks.
- The Permit is reviewed, approved, and executed by the Park District if found acceptable. Once executed, the Permit is copied to all impacted departments and the Applicant. Work may now be performed in coordination with the terms and conditions laid forth in the Permit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When do I need a Permit?
A: Any time an individual or entity is doing work on Cleveland Metroparks property.
Q: How do I know if I’m on Cleveland Metroparks property?
A: Check the County Auditor’s website (see below) or contact Cleveland Metroparks
Q: What is considered work?
A: Any access, physical alteration, or data collection, including surveys, staging, etc.
Q: Who do I contact if I have questions?
A: The Cleveland Metroparks Civil Engineer – Chris Papp, PE (
[email protected] or 216.635.3251).
Q: How much does a Permit cost?
A: Permits are processed for no fee in 2024. In 2025 permits will require a $100 review fee, and additional fees may be levied based upon the duration and nature of the request.
Q: If I need staging on Cleveland Metroparks property, is there a cost?
A: Yes, the cost will depend on the location and duration of the request. Charges are doubled if the Permit is not obtained in advance of the work.
Q: How long will it take to get a Permit?
A: Generally, simple permit review and issuance time is less than two to three weeks. Response time and lack of providing required information from applicants is not included in this duration. Permits of a more complex nature which may require a License Agreement or Easement may take several months. Some requests may be deemed an emergency and need to be addressed more quickly (i.e. a leaking sewer or gas line).
Q: Why do I need a Permit?
A: To ensure the request is in the best interest of Cleveland Metroparks and/or provides for a public good. The Permit also provides contact and insurance information in case something unforeseen happens. In addition, the Permit provides a record of any work performed on Park District property by an outside entity.
Q: Do I need a Permit with me in the field?
A: Yes, the signed Permit should be present on site during any work.
Q: Once I have a Permit do I need to do anything before I start?
A: Contact the Reservation Manager whose contact information is included in the Permit. Please call 216-635-3200 and ask for the Reservation Manager of the relevant park.
Q: Are engineered drawings required to acquire a permit?
A: It depends on the nature of the work. Anything of a complex nature will require professional engineered drawings. If an easement is required, a legal description will be required as well.
Q: Should I apply for a Permit if I’m a resident and am doing the work myself?
A: Yes.
Q: Is it possible a Permit will be denied?
A: Yes, if it is deemed the work is not in line with the core values and mission of the Park District or land restrictions prohibit the activity then the Permit may be denied.
Available Documents