City of Elkhart, Indiana

Building & Code Enforcement Department

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The Building Department is primarily responsible for conducting building, electrical, plumbing, HVAC and structural inspections within the city limits.

The mission of the department is, "To provide a safe building environment for the citizens of Elkhart to work, live and play through the enforcement of construction codes adopted by the State of Indiana and the City of Elkhart."

The Building Department issues permits for new construction, remodeling of existing structures, and the alteration or replacement of Electrical, Heating, Air-conditioning, Ventilation, and Plumbing systems. The department also co-operates with Code Enforcement and the Fire Department in the abatement of unsafe structures.

Prior to the issuance of permits, plans are reviewed for completeness and conformance to the Building Code. Local Plan Reviews (LPR) for construction projects are conducted weekly.

The Department issues licenses for Electrical and HVAC Contractors, and registers Plumbers licensed by the State of Indiana. The Building Department in conjunction with the Planning and Zoning Division issue Certificates of Occupancy and Certificates of Completeness. Inspections are conducted at different periods during construction. Inspection are required prior to pouring foundations, prior to walls being covered and upon completion and prior to occupancy; this is not an all inclusive list of required inspections, please check with the Building Inspectors regarding your project. Inspectors may stop construction if a contractor fails to obtain a permit or fails to correct a violation. Unsafe structures may be posted "Do not Occupy" if unsafe conditions are found to exist.