South Bend, Indiana

Mayor James Mueller


Building

Ensuring properties are constructed and maintained according to building and zoning codes is our primary mission. Our building administration responsibilities include issuing permits for construction, demolition, and occupancy. We also issue and monitor contractor registrations and licenses. This department serves all properties within the City of South Bend, and those with a 5-digit address within St. Joseph County.

Contractor Registrations
Building Permits

Request an Inspection

The 2020 Indiana Residential Code (based on the 2018 International Code) will now be in effect by the State.  This will include the State of Indiana Amendments.  2020 IRC.

View the code book for free.

*Per IRC 310.1, All new home applications must also include a basement plan that shows at least one emergency egress window or door for a common space.

YES! You need a permit for that.

Building Codes

This department enforces the State of Indiana’s building codes.

The Municipal Code of the City of South Bend, Indiana; Code of Ordinances

St. Joseph County, Indiana Code of Ordinances

Energy Codes

Zoning Ordinances

Useful Maps

Find out if your property falls within a TIF District, a Historic Area, or Wetland/Flood Plain, as well as Zoning and Active Permit information.  If so, see applicable guidelines below.  Also see other Useful Maps.

TIF Districts

Historic Properties

If your property is in an Historic District or designated as a Historic Landmark, before making any applications for building permits you will need to contact the Historical Preservation Commission.

Flood Plain Ordinance

If your property is in a Flood Plain or Wetland, prior approval may be needed.

Housing, Commercial and Valuation Reports

Useful Information

Here are some links to outside sources that may be helpful to contractors, and residents on preventing lead poisoning.

US EPA Main Page
US EPA Training Opportunities

APRA Requests

For City Properties, to request a copy of public records that have been filed with our department, please complete a CITY APRA REQUEST through this online portal.

For County Properties, to request a copy of public records that have been filed with our department please complete a   COUNTY APRA REQUEST through our online portal.
Contractor Registrations
Building Permits

What Do I Need a Permit for?

This web page was last updated on October 16, 2024. Links to other resources on this web page may have been last updated on a different date.
Email
building@southbendin.gov

Phone
574.235.9554
Hours of Operations
Office Hours: M-F, 7:30 am-4:15 pm

Leadership

Randy James
Randy James Building Commissioner

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County-City Building
227 West Jefferson Blvd.
South Bend, Indiana 46601
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Phone: 574-233-0311
TTY: 574-235-5567

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