Frequently Asked Permit Questions

How Long Does It Take to Get a Permit?

Permit review times vary depending on the type and complexity of the project.

Typical timelines:

• Simple permits: 1–3 business days
• Residential permits requiring plan review: 5–10 business days
• Commercial permits: Varies depending on project scope

What Happens If I Start Work Without a Permit?

Starting work without a required permit may result in:

• Stop-work orders
• Additional fees or penalties
• Required inspections before work can continue

When Are Inspections Required?

Most permits require inspections during the construction process.

Common inspections include:

• Clean-hole inspection
• Foundation inspection
• Framing inspection
• Electrical inspection
• Plumbing inspection
• Mechanical inspection
• Final inspection

How Do I Schedule an Inspection?

Inspections can be scheduled by contacting the inspector

When scheduling an inspection, please have:

• Your permit number
• Property address
• Type of inspection needed

If you need to contact an inspector, please see below:

• Building Inspector, Paul Goodwin: (574) 849-4176 Paul.Goodwin@cityofelkhartin.gov
• Electrical Inspector, Daniel Riddle (574) 218-3006 Dan.Riddle@cityofelkhartin.gov
• Mechanical Inspector, Ron Glick (574) 304-1179 Ron.Glick@cityofelkhartin.gov
• Plumbing Inspector, Ron Glick (interim) (574) 304-1179 Ron.Glick@cityofelkhartin.gov
• Zoning Inspector, Kyle Anthony-Petter (574) 338-1897 Kyle.Anthony-Petter@cityofelkhartin.gov 

Many construction and renovation projects require a permit before work begins.

Examples of projects that typically require a permit include:

• Building additions or structural changes
• Installation of siding covering more than 100 square feet or siding an entire building
• Roof replacement (installation of shingles covering more than 100 square feet)
• Adding new windows, changing the size or location of a window, or any work that impacts window framing
• Changing the size or location of a door, or any work that impacts door framing
• Replacement of stairs
• Repair, replacement, or installation of guardrails
• Deck construction
• Replacement of subflooring
• Installation of awnings, marquees, or permanent canopies that project more than 54 inches or require additional structural support (all commercial installations require a permit)
• Construction of a garage
• Electrical work
• Plumbing work
• HVAC installation or replacement
• Installation of sheds larger than 120 square feet
• Demolition of structures
• Swimming pools containing more than 2.5 feet of water

The following types of minor work generally do not require a permit in the City of Elkhart. However, projects must still comply with all applicable building and zoning regulations.

• Interior and exterior painting, wallpapering, or cosmetic finishes, but please follow lead-based paint precautions to protect your family
• Installing carpet, tile, or other flooring finishes (when subflooring is not replaced)
• Replacing cabinets or countertops without plumbing or structural changes
• Minor drywall repairs or patching
• Repair or replace broken glass in window, or replace an existing window of the same size
• Replacing interior doors without modifying the frame
• Replacing light fixtures without altering electrical wiring
• Installing shelving or wall-mounted fixtures
• Installing gutters or downspouts

A zoning clearance permit ensures that a project or property use complies with the City of Elkhart’s zoning ordinance before construction or occupancy begins, which includes: 

• Property setbacks
• Lot coverage
• Building height
• Permitted land uses
• Parking requirements

A zoning clearance is typically required for:

• New construction
• Building additions
• Decks and all accessory structures
• Sheds and garages
• Signs
• Pools
• Installation of fence
• Certain site improvements, including sidewalks
• Driveways

How Long Does Zoning Review Take?

Most zoning clearances are reviewed within a few business days, depending on the complexity of the request and whether additional information is required.

What Happens If My Project Does Not Meet Zoning Requirements?

If a project does not meet zoning standards, applicants may need to:

• Modify the project plans to meet zoning regulations
• Apply for a variance through the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA).

How Close Can an Accessory Structure Be to My Property Line? 

Accessory structures must meet minimum setback requirements, which determine how close a structure can be placed to property lines. In the City of Elkhart, accessory structures must be located at least three (3) feet from side property lines and five (5) feet from the rear property line.

Can I Install a Fence on My Property Line?

Fences can be installed up to your property line, but not on it. It is the property owner’s responsibility to ensure the fence is located on their property.

How Do I Find My Property’s Zoning?

Property zoning information may be available through the City’s GIS map or by contacting the Permit Center.

Staff can help confirm:

• Your zoning district
• Allowed uses
• Setback requirements
• Development standards

What Is the Rental Registration Program?

The Rental Registration Program requires owners of residential rental properties to register their properties with the City of Elkhart.

Registration helps the City:

• Maintain accurate ownership records
• Ensure rental properties meet minimum housing standards
• Improve communication with property owners
• Protect the health and safety of tenants

What are the most common rental violations:

• Inoperable or missing Smoke Alarms
• Outlets: improperly wired, grounded, or missing covers
• Inoperable or missing GFCI outlets in bathrooms and kitchens
• Missing handrails on stairs
• Water Heater: Missing the relief valve discharge pipe, or the existing pipe is not long enough. Gas shutoff is damaged or missing. Chimney or flue piping is blocked, misalighed or missing