The Ohio Architects Board requires each registered architect to submit a unique individual seal with each set of designs, blueprints, or specifications. Just like a fingerprint, this number sets the architect’s work apart and can be tracked even if alterations are needed.
Ohio Architecture Seals and Stamps Design
Per regulations, Ohio architecture seals and stamps must have a circular shape and a 2” diameter. According to the Ohio Architects Board, the outer ring will include “State of Ohio” at the top and “Registered Architect” at the bottom. In the inner circle, will be the licensee’s name and licensure number, placed horizontally.Landscape architects can expect the same type of Ohio architecture seals and stamps with only a title change on the bottom of the outside ring, and two accents above and below the landscape architect's name and license number. Otherwise, the design remains the same.
Ohio Architecture Seals and Stamps Requirements
Registered architects demonstrate responsible control when using the Ohio architecture seals and stamps. “Responsible control” is the term used to show the architect has provided a standard of care with all materials, instruments, and calculations. The architect has considered environmental and climate changes on a structure as well as human safety.
As of July 1, 2012, the registered architect must now include below the seal, his or her printed name, license number and the expiration date of the license. The date is also required next to the signature.
The front of all blueprints, plans, specifications, and other architectural documents must be sealed and signed, following the above guidelines. Although the Board no longer requires each sheet to be stamped, check with the building department as they may still require the process.
No architect may alter designs bearing Ohio architecture seals and stamps unless he or she has written permission from the original architect. Ohio law also includes written permission from the architect’s estate, if necessary.
If the document is altered, the altering architect must follow Ohio law and seal the document. The document must also be signed, dated, and the architect’s name printed below the seal with the license number and license expiration date. A detailed explanation of the changes must be included. Once a seal has been placed, it must not be removed.
Only individual architects may submit a seal on documents. In the state of Ohio, corporations and firms cannot use seals and will not be issued Ohio architecture seals and stamps.
A registered architect must never allow his or her seal to be used on plans made by a non-professional architect.
No Ohio architecture seals and stamps are required for any residential one-family or two-family building. An architect is not required for most residential additions including garages, carports, decks, porches, and sheds. This exception also includes agricultural buildings, per the Fayette County, Ohio Building Department.
Ohio Architecture Seals and Stamps Purchases
Research online before purchasing Ohio architecture seals and stamps as prices will vary. Local printers may offer the seals. Choose a vendor that offers up-to-date designs and a guarantee that the seals will meet state requirements.
Acorn Sales offers Ohio architecture seals and stamps in a variety of forms including:
- Rubber stamp
- Pre-inked stamp
- Embossed seal
- Electronic jpg
Keep in mind, although the Board accepts electronic Ohio seals, building departments are not required to accept electronic seals. Check before submitting plans.
Ohio architecture seals and stamps can also be purchased online from Acorn Sales.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Ohio architect seal requirements for registered architects?
Registered architects in Ohio must use a unique individual seal on drawings, blueprints, and specifications. The seal must be circular, 2 inches in diameter, and include “State of Ohio” on the top outer ring, “Registered Architect” on the bottom outer ring, and the architect’s name and license number in the center.
What information must appear below an Ohio architecture seal?
As of July 1, 2012, the architect must include the printed name, license number, and license expiration date below the seal. The date of signature is also required next to the signature on the document.
Do Ohio architecture seals and stamps have to be used on every sheet?
Not always. The Ohio Architects Board no longer requires every sheet to be stamped, but the front of all blueprints, plans, specifications, and other architectural documents must be sealed and signed. Some local building departments may still require each sheet to be stamped, so it’s best to verify local submission rules.
Can an Ohio architect seal be used on altered or revised plans?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. If another architect alters plans that already bear an Ohio seal, written permission from the original architect is required. The changing architect must then seal, sign, and date the document, print their name and license number, include the license expiration date, and provide a detailed explanation of the changes.
Can a firm or corporation use Ohio architecture seals and stamps?
No. In Ohio, only individual registered architects may submit a seal on documents. Firms and corporations cannot use or be issued Ohio architecture seals and stamps.
Where can I buy Ohio architecture seals and stamps that meet state requirements?
You can purchase Ohio architecture seals and stamps from vendors that offer updated, compliant designs. Options may include rubber stamps, pre-inked stamps, embossed seals, and electronic JPG versions. Before buying, confirm the vendor’s design meets Ohio state requirements and check whether your local building department accepts electronic seals.
