Show All Answers

1. I am a resident and am thinking of improving my property. Do I need a permit?

Residential Improvement Location Permits are generally required for projects that involve constructing, enlarging, moving, or in some cases maintaining a structure or building. Permits are typically required for:

• Decks
• Fences (See the Fence Regulation Handout (PDF) for more information.)
• Garages
• Sheds (over 144 square feet)
• Swimming pools

In order to process your permit you will need to submit a completed permit application, plot plan, and permit fee. Before starting a project please call the New Haven Planning Department at 260-748-7040 to determine whether a permit will be required from the city prior to construction.

2. I am having a new home built and need to close on the property but the home is not complete. Will I still be able to get a Certificate of Compliance?

If the project includes improvements that are not complete and the applicant needs to obtain a Certificate of Compliance he or she may fill out a Certificate of Compliance Request Form (PDF). The form includes a section which will allow the applicant to identify unfinished improvements such as driveway installation or lawn seeding and specify an anticipated date of completion. This document is typically used in situations where the property owner needs verification that a financed improvement (ex: closing on a new home) is in compliance with local zoning laws.

3. What about commercial and industrial projects?

The City of New Haven requires that an Improvement Location Permit (PDF) be issued for new construction as well as an expansion of existing facilities. All commercial and industrial projects are routed to various reviewing agencies for comments prior to issuance. Staff recommends that applicants schedule a pre-application meeting to discuss the project and submissions requirements. View the Commercial and Industrial Development Process Map (PDF) for more information.

4. What types of inspections will be required during the construction of my project?

Typically the Planning Department will conduct an inspection once the project is complete. Other inspections may be necessary from agencies such as the Allen County Building Department while the project is under construction. Commercial and industrial projects may also require inspections from other reviewing agencies such as the New Haven/Adams Township Fire Department or the New Haven Engineering Department.

Contact the Department

Please call the Planning Department at 260-748-7040 to notify staff when your project is complete and someone will conduct a site inspection to verify compliance with zoning laws. For residential improvements, it generally will not necessary for the applicant to be present during an inspection as staff will only inspect the footprint of the improvement.

5. What types of permits does the New Haven Planning Department issue?

An Improvement Location Permit (ILP) (PDF) is a permit issued by the Planning Department acknowledging compliance with all land use regulations administered by the City of New Haven, Indiana. This permit is often required before certain building permits can be issued by the Allen County Building Department.

6. Where can I find zoning information for properties within New Haven's planning jurisdiction?

New Haven's Zoning Maps are available online using the Zoning and Floodplain Map Viewer.  

7. Who should I contact regarding building permits and building codes?

Chapter 153 of the New Haven Land Usage Codes designates the Allen County Building Department to administer and enforce building codes within the city limits. For more information regarding building codes or building permit requirements please call the Allen County Building Department at 260-449-7131.