Police Department FAQ

What are your hours and location?

The Elkhart Police Department is located at 175 Waterfall Drive, Elkhart, IN 46516. Lobby and Records Department hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM. Officers are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. For non-emergencies, call 574-295-7070. For emergencies, call 911.

What can be filed online?

The online reporting system should only be used for incidents that do not require immediate attention and are not actively being monitored by police personnel.

The following incident types may be reported online:

• Theft offenses (not involving medications or firearms, and no suspect information)
• Criminal mischief (damage to personal property or vehicles, no suspect information)
• Harassment with no suspect information
• Vandalism with no suspect information

Before submitting a report, please confirm:

• This is not an emergency
• The incident occurred within Elkhart city limits
• There are no known suspects
• There is no evidence to be collected at this time

Knowingly filing a false police report is a violation of Indiana law and may result in criminal penalties.

What happens after I file a report online?

After submitting a report, you will receive an email confirming submission. Once approved, you will be assigned a case number and will be able to print a copy of the report for your records.

What if I want to meet an officer in person?

If your situation does not meet the online reporting criteria or you prefer to speak with an officer, call 574-295-7070. If this is an emergency, call 911.

How do I get fingerprints?

Fingerprinting services are available during Records business hours (Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM). You must present a valid U.S. government-issued ID. The cost is $5.00 for two fingerprint cards. The Records Department does not accept $50 or $100 bills. Electronic fingerprinting is not available.

How do I apply for a handgun permit?

All handgun permit applications must be completed online through the Indiana State Police Firearms License Application process. Please visit the City’s Police Department page for additional information on permits and inspections.

How do I request a background check or juvenile records?

Requests must be submitted through the City of Elkhart Public Record Request Portal.

How do I request a salvage vehicle inspection?

To request a salvage vehicle inspection, contact 574-389-4746 or email contactpolice@cityofelkhartin.gov. Please include your name and phone number. You will be contacted with additional details and scheduling information. 

How do I request records?

The Records Department is open Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM. All public records requests must be submitted through the City of Elkhart Public Record Request Portal and are subject to Indiana Code 5-14-3.

How do I request a police report?

Crash reports are available online at www.buycrash.com. The State of Indiana contracts with BuyCrash to provide these reports. The Elkhart Police Department does not control the cost or associated fees.

How can I report non-emergency issues in the city?

To report issues such as graffiti, damaged street signs, potholes, or other concerns, please use MyElkhart311.

How do I pay a ticket?

Tickets for Elkhart City Court can be paid online through https://paygov.us 

You may also pay in person at the City Clerk’s Office:
229 S. 2nd St, Elkhart, IN 46516
Contact: 574-522-5272

Parking tickets can be paid at the Police Department during Records Department hours. The Records Department does not accept $50 or $100 bills.

What is the Police Department’s contact information?

Non-emergency: 574-295-7070.
Emergency: 911
Email: contactpolice@cityofelkhartin.gov 

How can I make an anonymous tip?

Anonymous tips can be submitted online or by calling the tip line at 574-389-4777. Do not use online forms for emergencies. Call 911 or the non-emergency line.

How do I file a complaint against an officer?

Complaints can be submitted online or by:

• Emailing professionalstandards@cityofelkhartin.gov 
• Calling 574-295-7070 and requesting a supervisor
• Visiting the department during lobby hours

How can I commend an officer?

You may submit a commendation online or by emailing contactpolice@cityofelkhartin.gov. 

How do I apply to become a police officer?

Visit the City of Elkhart Careers page for applications, benefits, and career information.

What are the requirements to become a police officer?

• Must be a U.S. citizen
• Must be at least 21 years old and under 40 at the time of appointment
• High school diploma or GED
• Valid driver’s license
• Must be willing to live in Elkhart or an adjoining county

What happens after I submit my application?

You will be notified of the next testing date. Additional details about the hiring process are available on the Careers page.

How do I apply for non-officer positions?

Visit the City of Elkhart Human Resources Careers page for current job openings.

How do I check on an inmate or arrestee?

Contact the Elkhart County Sheriff’s Office or visit their website for inmate services.

How do I file a protection order?

Contact the Elkhart County Prosecutor’s Office Victim Assistance Services at 574-523-2237 or visit their website for forms and information.

How do I find information about a court case?

Visit mycase.in.gov or the Elkhart County Courts website.

Where can I view City ordinances?

City ordinances are available through the City of Elkhart Code of Ordinances.

Where can I view Indiana criminal laws?

The Indiana Code is available on the Indiana General Assembly website.