Canal Lands Purchase/Transfer Policy and Procedures  

Introduction: Local and regional interest groups, working in cooperation with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), reviewed and revised the policies and procedures to transfer or sell ODNR's canal lands. The revised policy adds historical, environmental, recreation and economic development considerations pertaining to a particular canal parcel and its surroundings prior to a decision being made.

Purpose: To set forth guidelines for the leasing, licensing, granting of easements and sale or transfer of Canal Lands by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

Mission Statement: To protect and conserve the recreational, ecological and historical values of the canal corridors in Ohio, and promote economic development opportunities through the wise use of these resources.

Authority: The Director of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources retains "exclusive authority to administer, manage and establish policies governing Canal Lands" (Section 1520.02 of the Ohio Revised Code), "except those canals that are operated by the Ohio Historical Society (OHS) on July 1, 1989" (Section 1520.03 of the Ohio Revised Code).

Download 272k PDF copy of the revised Policy and Procedures.  (Revised November, 2006)

How to Purchase Canal Land

In accordance with the Department's Canal Land Real Estate Policy, canal land that does not have recreational, historic, environmental or economic development value, and is not part of the hydraulic operation, may be purchased from the Department.

Preference is being given to existing lease holders and adjacent property owners. In the case where more than one person has a legitimate interest in a parcel, the state reserves the right to sell the parcel at public auction.

Procedure To Request Purchase Of Real Estate

Public Review Process Step by Step Chart Page (Opens in new window)

Prospective purchasers are asked fill out an application to request purchasing canal real estate.  Click here to download the application.    The application should be filled out with as much information concerning the parcel, it's location, nearest major landmark or canal station, and any other related information to assist our staff in identifying the property.

Based on criteria contained in the Canal Lands Real Estate Policy, the Department will determine if the parcel may be sold.  If the parcel can not be sold, the request will be denied.  If the parcel is eligible for sale, approval from the appropriate Divisions will be sought and the sales process initiated.

The purchaser is responsible for providing a survey of the site.  An "Agreement to Sell" should be executed prior to conducting a survey of the property.  The purchase price is determined using the "County Market Value" method as outlined in the Canal Land Real Estate Policy.  The Department has the authority to conduct an appraisal of the property if deems necessary by the Department.

ODNR Canal Lands Real Estate Review Guidelines (revised August 2009)    Print the chart

Step 1 - Request is Received and Processed by ODNR

Step 2 - Local Government Entity Review (30 calendar days)

Step 3 - Stakeholder Review (30 calendar days)

Step 4 - Following Comments Stage

Step 5 - Division Chief review (14 calendar days)

Step 6 - ODNR Director Review

Q. 

Yes, if it does not interfere with drainage, or the access of others etc., however you will need to enter into a lease agreement with the State of Ohio. 

Please send a written request including details and a map, or click here to download the application form.

If your application is approved we will contact you to proceed with a lease.  This same procedure applies for utilities (pipes, phone/electric, etc.).

Application to Use or Transfer Canal Lands (pdf)

Conveyance Review Form (pdf)