Our Mission
The Franklin County Community Development section of the Economic Development & Planning Department is responsible for providing funding and technical assistance to support community development activities and initiatives in Franklin County outside the auspices of the City of Columbus. The planning and zoning department is responsible for all zoning, code enforcement and land-use planning activities in the unincorporated area of Franklin County.
Online Permitting
With the Franklin County Online Permit Center you can:
- Apply for certain building and zoning permits
- Upload documents
- Pay permit fees
- Request inspections and view results
SmartWorks Programs
Through the following suite of SmartWorks programs, the County’s goal is to make ongoing strategic investments in the areas of economic development, workforce development, and energy efficiency.
Resources
Rental Assistance Lookup Tool
Rental assistance is available! The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) created a rental assistance lookup tool for renters and landlords.
FHA-Insured Mortgage Relief
If you are struggling to make your mortgage payment on your FHA-insured mortgage because of COVID-19, help is available. Visit resources for homeowners or HUD-approved housing counseling agencies.
Community Shelter Board Emergency Shelter Assistance
Do you or someone you know need help finding emergency shelter? Call the Community Shelter Board hotline at (614) 274-7000.
SBA Small Business Disaster Loans
The Small Business Administration is providing disaster assistance for relief of hardship caused by the coronavirus.
Small Business and COVID-19 General Assistance Guides
As a response to COVID-19 Franklin County Economic Development and Planning is providing a guide to current US Small Business Administration (SBA) programming as well as digital Resource Guide for businesses, employees, and the general public.
The Food Business Portal
The Franklin County Food Business Portal is here! Everything you need to plan, launch and grow your food business.