What Villages Can Regulate Through Ordinances:
Ohio villages have home rule authority under the Ohio Constitution (Article XVIII), which allows them to govern local matters. Common topics addressed in village ordinances include:
Zoning and land use (e.g. residential vs. commercial zones)
Building codes and property maintenance
Noise regulations
Curfews
Animal control
Public safety and health
Traffic and parking regulations (on village streets)
Trash and recycling requirements
Licensing for businesses or vendors
Village government operations (e.g. salaries, meeting rules)
How Ordinances Are Passed:
Introduction: A council member introduces an ordinance at a regular or special village council meeting.
Readings: Most ordinances require three readings at separate meetings, unless the council votes to suspend the rules.
Public Input: There may be public hearings depending on the topic (especially for zoning or budget ordinances).
Vote: The ordinance must pass by a majority (or two-thirds in some cases).
Publication: Once passed, it must be published (often in a local paper or on a village website) and goes into effect either immediately or after a specified period.
Enforcement:
Village ordinances are enforced by local law enforcement or village officials. Violations can result in fines, citations, or other penalties.