An Ohio non-compete agreement is a contract between employer and employee that sets forth terms regarding an employee’s ability to work in the same field/industry as their employer upon termination of employment. ‘Work in the same field/industry’ means either starting a business in competition with one’s previous employer or working for one of their competitors. This contract is only valid for a certain period of time, and only applies to a specific geographical location (i.e., a particular town, city, county). Furthermore, a non-compete agreement will most likely contain provisions prohibiting the employee from soliciting the company’s clients, customers, contractors, or other employees. The enforceability of a non-compete agreement hinges on clear language, unambiguous terms, and reasonable limitations. Although no specific statute exists, courts of law in the State of Ohio are generally inclined to rule in favor of an agreement if its conditions:

  • are no greater than necessary to protect the employer’s legitimate business interests;
  • do not impose undue hardship on the employee; and
  • are not injurious to the public.


Laws – None.

Non-Compete Limit – None.

Non-Solicitation Limit – None.