Building Department
What are Building Codes?
Building codes are the rules, regulations and specifications that the Town of Westville uses to help ensure quality construction and a safe finished structure.
What is a Building Permit?
A building permit is an agreement between the Town of Westville and the applicant whereby the applicant agrees to follow all codes and Town agrees to inspect the construction to ensure that all codes are followed. A building permit issued by the Building Department serves as a formal and legal authorization to start the construction work.
Why are Inspections Needed?
Town ordinance requires a permit be issued when work is to be performed on a structure. The inspections that follow the issuance of the permit may uncover unsatisfactory work, faulty materials or violations of the code that could result in unsafe and hazardous conditions for you, your family, your employee's or the general public.
When and What do I need permits for? How much do they cost?
Where do I apply for a permit?
You may apply for a permit at the Town Hall, located at 353 West Main Street in Westville. Applications may be printed off the main Building Department page.
How Long is permit valid?
Building permits are valid for one year from issuance date.
What types of Inspections Are Required?
Typically, builders are required to call for three types of inspections during the building process, prior to covering up their work: footing/underground; framing/rough-in; and final. The contact numbers to call and schedule an inspection are listed on the main Building Department page.
What is a Certificate of Occupancy?
It is a document that certifies all inspections were made and approved by the Building Department and that the structure is ready for occupancy.
What are the responsibilities for obtaining a permit?
Owner:
All building permits are issued in the name of the owner.
Must post the building permit on the project job site during the entire time of construction.
BUILDING OWNER AND/OR CONTRACTOR:
Must inform the Building Department/Inspector twenty-four (24) hours before starting construction work.
Must call after excavation for the structure is complete and trenches for footings, column pads, piers, spread footings, or other types of footings are ready for concrete. No concrete shall be poured without a soil inspection.
Must call after all framing members and plumbing, mechanical, and electrical rough-ins are in place and before being covered with lath and plaster, drywall, paneling, etc...
Must call at the completion of all work covered by the building permit and prior to use of occupancy.
Who needs Contractor Registration and why?
All contractors must be registered with the Building Department of the Town of Westville. Registration ensures that contractors are properly bonded and insured. If you are planning to hire a contractor, contact the Building Department to verify that the contractor is registered. If you are a contractor, you may pick up a Contractor Registration form at the Town Hall. You may print an application form off the main Building Department page, under Forms & Applications.
Freaquently Asked Questions
Westville,Town-Hall
Office:
353 West Main Street
Westville, Indiana 46391
Phone: (219) 785-2123
Fax: (219) 785-2607
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 275
Westville, Indiana 46391