New Public Notice Requirements for Ohio Townships

Ohio law requires townships to publish public notices in a newspaper of general circulation within the township. Previously, using a printed newspaper may have been the best way to inform residents of what was happening in a community. That is no longer the case today, as many daily newspapers have folded or have reduced the frequency of their publications. These factors, combined with the high cost of placing notices in print, have made it increasingly difficult for townships to communicate effectively with residents.

The changes in Ohio HB 315 modernize public notice requirements for townships. Townships now have three options for publishing required public notices:

• 1. Publish notices on the township’s website and social media account. A township is not required to create a social media account; however, if a township utilizes social media accounts, public notices shall be posted on them.
• 2. Publish notices in the digital version of a newspaper of general circulation in the township. Most newspapers have a website and online advertising.
• 3. Continue to publish notices in the print version of a newspaper of general circulation.

This change, which mirrors township law with municipal law, will increase accessibility and reduce costs for townships while ensuring that residents remain informed about important issues and decisions.

Taken from the Ohio Township News, March/April, 2025 and submitted by Randy Mott. 

Ohio's 1st Rural Historic District

There are only five rural historic districts in the United States larger than 18,000 acres. Three are in Virginia and one is in Indiana. The fifth is in Ohio - our own Elizabeth Township.