When you purchased property on Johnson’s Island, the Declaration of Real Estate Restrictions became a condition of the sale. Johnson’s Island Property Owners Association Trustees have been empowered to enforce the deed restrictions. You should further be aware that we currently come under the jurisdiction of the R-1 zoning classification of the Village of Marblehead, Ohio. The stronger language of the two: Zoning Ordinances or Deed Restrictions shall prevail as it relates to property use and construction. Further, the Trustees are in a position to retain legal counsel and to take action against any violators.

Our intent is to protect the investment of the owners who have already improved their land as well as ensuring that each property owner can safely invest his funds in property improvements for residential use and be sure that his neighbors will not cause injury or loss of his investment through noncompliance.

It has been agreed by the Trustees variances may be granted to relieve hardship in such cases that are the result of mutual agreement by all the adjoining property owners. The variances shall pertain only to land used for residential buildings and will not be available permitting nonconforming land uses or building uses.

The Trustees have adopted a resolution establishing a Building and Zoning record system for Johnson’s Island, which has been in effect for many years. Please review the three (3) steps necessary for any building activity on the island prior to starting your project.

Step 1. You need to obtain a Building Permit from the Johnson’s Island Property Owners Association. With your completed application we will also require a plot plan, and blue prints, showing a minimum the first floor plan of your building or addition. The plot plan must show the distances of your building or addition from the road right of way, the lot side lines and the distance from your water/back property line.

Please contact: Bob Thoman, at (419) 798-8007, or

Step 2. After review and approval of your Johnson’s Island Property Association Building Permit, you will need to obtain a Zoning Permit from the Village of Marblehead Zoning Inspector. He will need a copy of your approved Johnson’s Island permit and a copy of the plot plan. He will check and record your distances from the road right of way, the side lot lines, and the water/back property line.

Step 3. You will need to obtain a building permit from the Ottawa County Department of Building Standards and Inspection. You will also be required to obtain other permits such as sanitary, electrical, plumbing, etc. They will also want to see a copy of your approved Johnson’s Island permit.

Please contact: Ottawa County Dept. of Building Standards and Inspection

1858 East Perry St. Port Clinton, .OH 43452

(419) 734-6767