How do I apply for a building permit in Columbus, IN?

1. Confirm whether the project is only a building permit matter or also needs zoning, stormwater, or subdivision approvals. 2. Use the county code enforcement forms and submit the required packet to the office. 3. Obtain permit issuance before construction starts. 4. Schedule required inspections by phone. 5. Finish final inspection and settle all fees and fines before final sign-off.

How do I schedule a building inspection in Columbus, IN?

Inspections can be scheduled via: 812-379-1535. 24-hour advance notice required..

City Building Permits

Columbus, IN - 2026 Building Permit Guide

How to apply for a building permit in Columbus, Indiana. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

Indiana Bartholomew County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

The county code enforcement page is the published permit and inspection authority used for Columbus building permits.

Department: Bartholomew County Code Enforcement / Technical Code Enforcement
Address: 440 Third Street, Columbus, IN 47201
Phone: 812-379-1535
Email: codeenforcement@bartholomew.in.gov
Website: https://www.bartholomew.in.gov/code-enforcement.html

Application Process

Confirm whether the project is only a building permit matter or also needs zoning, stormwater, or subdivision approvals.
Use the county code enforcement forms and submit the required packet to the office.
Obtain permit issuance before construction starts.
Schedule required inspections by phone.
Finish final inspection and settle all fees and fines before final sign-off.

Source: Bartholomew County Code Enforcement / Technical Code Enforcement

General Requirements

Regulated construction work within Columbus is handled through county code enforcement.

Required Documents

Project plans
The permit packet linked from the county page

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Contact the Bartholomew County Code Enforcement / Technical Code Enforcement to confirm whether your project requires a permit before starting work.

Inspections

How to Schedule

812-379-1535 (phone)

Scheduling deadline: 24-hour advance notice required.
Inspection hours: Calls accepted until 4:30 PM the day before.

Typical inspection sequence: Typical sequence: footing, under-slab, basement foundation, crawl-space foundation, rough-in, final.

Additional Resources

Zoning information: View zoning info
Stormwater Management Plan Approval Fees
License lookup guide: Indiana Contractor License Requirements
Contract template: Indiana Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
Indiana hub: Indiana Contractor License & Permit Hub

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the Bartholomew County Code Enforcement / Technical Code Enforcement before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbus Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Columbus, IN?: Regulated construction work within Columbus is handled through county code enforcement.
How do I apply for a building permit in Columbus, IN?: 1. Confirm whether the project is only a building permit matter or also needs zoning, stormwater, or subdivision approvals. 2. Use the county code enforcement forms and submit the required packet to the office. 3. Obtain permit issuance before construction starts. 4. Schedule required inspections by phone. 5. Finish final inspection and settle all fees and fines before final sign-off.
How do I schedule a building inspection in Columbus, IN?: Inspections can be scheduled via: 812-379-1535. 24-hour advance notice required..

Need help with your project?

Navigating permits in Columbus can be complicated.

Jaspector connects you with local experts who can review your scope, verify your contractor, and help you understand what permits your project actually needs.

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Important: This page is an educational resource provided by jaspector.com. It is not legal advice, and it does not substitute for official guidance from the permit authority listed above. Permit requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing department before beginning any construction project. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Jaspector assumes no liability for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.

Other cities in Bartholomew County

Unincorporated Area Edinburgh Hope Clifford Elizabethtown Hartsville Jonesville

View all Bartholomew County jurisdictions →