Ohio Fair Housing Law
Ohio protects nine classes from housing discrimination, two more than federal law.
Ohio Revised Code 4112 prohibits discrimination in housing based on nine protected classes: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, familial status, ancestry, and military status. Ancestry and military status are Ohio-specific additions beyond the seven federal Fair Housing Act classes. Last reviewed April 2026.
Ohio Fair Housing Protected Classes
The Ohio Fair Housing Act (ORC 4112) prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental, financing, or advertising of housing based on the following classes:
The first seven classes are protected under the federal Fair Housing Act (Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968). Ohio adds ancestry and military status as additional protected classes, providing broader protections than federal law alone.
What Is Prohibited?
- Refusing to sell, rent, or show a property based on a protected class
- Discriminatory terms, conditions, or privileges in a transaction
- Discriminatory advertising, including language that indicates a preference
- Steering buyers or renters toward or away from specific neighborhoods
- Blockbusting: attempting to profit by inducing panic selling based on demographics
- Discriminatory lending practices (redlining)
How to File a Complaint
Ohio Civil Rights Commission
crc.ohio.gov | 1-888-278-7101
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
hud.gov/fairhousing | 1-800-669-9777
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Ohio fair housing differ from federal law?
Ohio adds ancestry and military status as protected classes under ORC 4112, extending beyond the seven federal Fair Housing Act classes (race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, familial status).
Where do I file a fair housing complaint in Ohio?
You can file with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission (1-888-278-7101, crc.ohio.gov) and/or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (1-800-669-9777, hud.gov/fairhousing). Complaints must generally be filed within one year.
Can a seller refuse to sell based on a protected class?
No. A seller, landlord, or agent cannot refuse to sell, rent, or show property based on any protected class. Violations can result in civil penalties, damages, and injunctive relief.
This content is for educational purposes only. Consult a licensed Ohio attorney for advice specific to your situation. Content reflects Ohio law as of April 2026.