Columbus Contractor License Bond

What Is the Columbus Contractor License Bond?

Columbus requires a $25,000 contractor license/registration bond, filed with the Department of Building & Zoning Services. The amount is the same for every contractor type. It protects the City from losses or damage caused by your construction work. If a claim is paid, you repay the surety.

The flat $25,000 covers general contractors, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, refrigeration, hydronics, sewer/water, and fire-protection contractors. Demolition contractors do not need this bond.

Who Needs It?

• General contractors in Columbus need the $25,000 bond to be licensed.
• Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other trade contractors post the same $25,000 bond and must first hold an Ohio (OCILB) state license.

City vs. State

General contractors are not state-licensed in Ohio — they register locally with Columbus. The OCILB trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, refrigeration, hydronics) must hold an Ohio state license before registering with the city.

How to Get Bonded

1. Click “Get Your Bond Now” and enter a few details plus your ZIP code.
2. Buy your bond online at secure checkout.
3. File the bond with the City of Columbus Department of Building & Zoning Services and pull your permits.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the Columbus contractor bond?

$25,000, and it is the same flat amount for every contractor type, filed with Building & Zoning Services.

Does the amount change by trade or job size?

No. Columbus uses one flat $25,000 amount across all contractor classes.

How long does it last?

One year. The bond expiration must match your license/registration expiration, and you renew annually.

Amounts and rules are set by Columbus and can change. Confirm the current requirement with the city before you buy.

Related: All local bonds in Ohio · All Ohio surety bonds