Application for Building Permits
Building permits are necessary so that the Building Department can inspect the job for safety, sound construction practices, and compliance to building and zoning codes.  The purpose of the permit application is to enable the applicant to present all documentation with reference to the structure and to facilitate its plan examination and compliance with zoning requirements.  The applicant should present the completed permit application along with all of the drawing, plat of survey and any additional information deemed necessary to the Planning & Building Department.

Permits must be applied for all new construction and for additions to existing structures.  Other projects that require building permits are in-ground and above-ground pools, sheds, fences, detached garages, decks, signs, excavation and fill of land.

A plat of survey is required showing the location of the proposed improvements with existing and proposed elevations of land.  Construction drawings showing footing and foundation plans, dimensions of all floors, cross sections with details of footings, walls, floors and roof must be supplied.  The Town has adopted by reference the IRC  Code (1 & 2 Family Code)  and the IBC 2000 for Commercial Construction effective June 22, 2001.


Licensed Contractors
Merrillville requires that all contractors be licensed with the Town.  Before you hire a contractor call the Building Department (769-3631) to verify that the contractor is licensed with the Town of Merrillville.  Also ask for names and addresses of other jobs the company has done and check on those references. Never pay the contractor before work is started.  Obtain a signed contract for the work to be completed with the price agreed to and make sure you read the fine print.  It is also a good idea to check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there are complaints listed against the contractor.


Electrical Permits
A supplemental permit must be obtained for all installations or alteration of electrical services.  This permit will only be issued to a Licensed Electrical Contractor with the Town.  However, a homeowner may be issued a permit upon submission of a schematic drawing to be approved by the electrical inspector, and upon signing an affidavit that homeowner will be doing the electrical installation. The Town has adopted by reference the National Electric Code, (current edition).


Plumbing Permits
A supplemental permit must be obtained for all installations or alterations of plumbing.  This permit will only be issued to a plumbing contractor registered with the Town and licensed through the State of Indiana.  However, a  homeowner may be issued a permit upon submission of an isometric drawing of the plumbing lines, to be approved by the plumbing inspector, and upon signing an affidavit that the homeowner will be doing the plumbing installation.  The Town has adopted by reference the Uniform Plumbing Code.


Mechanical Permits
A supplemental permit must be obtained for all installation or alteration of heating/air conditioning.  This permit will only be issued to a licensed mechanical contractor with the Town.  However, a homeowner may be issued a permit upon signing an affidavit stating the homeowner will be doing the heating/air conditioning installation.  The Town has adopted by reference the International Mechanical Code, (current edition).


Zoning
In order to carry out the purposes and provisions of the Town of Merrillville Zoning Ordinance, the Town is divided into zoning districts.  Each district has specific uses and front, rear, and side setbacks, height requirements; as well as specification on the lot size, width, and parking requirements.