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Building Department

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1. When don't I need a permit?

Anything defined as a cosmetic improvement does not require a permit. Such cosmetic improvements are:

• Painting and siding
• Trim work
• Flooring, landscaping, and tree trimming
• Electrical or plumbing appliance/fixture replacement
• Same size exterior door and window replacement

2. Where on my property can I build a fence?

A decorative or chain link style fence may abut your side and backyard property lines and must not exceed six feet or measure any lower than three feet in height. When erecting a fence in your front yard, the fence must be a minimum of six inches away from a public sidewalk and stand no taller than four feet. If you are on a corner lot, you are considered to have two front yards.

A permit is required before any fence may be installed. Submit your permit application and site plan showing the fence location to the Building Department prior to starting your project.

3. Where can I put a pool?

Simply remember the six-foot rule - keep the outer walls of the pool a minimum of six feet away from side and back yard property lines. The same goes for clearances from structures / buildings. Place it clear of any utility easements in case one of our utility companies needs to dig where you now have your pool.

The pool must also be protected by use of an automatic cover that can withstand a minimum load of 1,000 pounds or by erecting a barrier of no less than four feet in height. This barrier may be a fence erected a minimum of six feet from the outer walls of the pool or it may be a security gating which affixes to the pool itself. The four-foot barrier is a state law.

4. Which building codes has the City of Valparaiso adopted?

The Building Department has adopted the following building codes:

• International Building Code, 2006 with Indiana Amendments
• International Residential Code, 2003 with Indiana Amendments
• National Electric Code 2008 with Indiana Amendments
• International Plumbing Code, 2006 with Indiana Amendments
• International Mechanical Code, 2006 with Indiana Amendments
• International Fuel Gas Code, 2006 with Indiana Amendments
• International Fire Code, 2006 with Indiana Amendments
• American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-Conditioning Engineers 90.1 2007 Edition with Indiana Amendments
• Indiana Swimming Pool Code
• Indiana Migrant Day Care Nursery Fire Safety Code
• Indiana Visitability Code