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Online GBL & Permit System

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Apply for Permits

TO APPLY FOR A PERMIT WITH THE CITY OF GARY

All contractors and subcontractors must be licensed with the City of Gary to do work in the city. Under certain conditions, homeowners may be permitted to perform work on their own property.

Download the relevant application from the links below and submit the completed application to building@gary.gov

• Building Permit Application
• Electrical permit application
• HVAC permit application  
• Plumbing permit application  
• Homeowner’s permit application
• Certificate of Completion to be submitted by the contractor at the completion of work

Please reach out to the Building Department with any questions at (219) 881-1377.

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Contactor Permits

Contractors performing construction, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, or other regulated work within the City of Gary may be required to obtain the appropriate permit before beginning work.

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Contractors must hold the appropriate City of Gary license or otherwise meet the City's applicable licensing and reciprocity requirements for the work being performed.

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Permit applications, required documentation, fees, and other requirements vary depending on the type and scope of work. Contractors should ensure that all required information and documentation are submitted with their permit application.

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Homeowner Permits

Eligible homeowners may apply for permits for work on their residential property. Homeowner permits are intended for qualifying property owners who meet the City's requirements. Ownership of a property does not automatically qualify an individual for a homeowner permit.
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All homeowner permit applications are reviewed by the City of Gary Building Department to verify eligibility and compliance with applicable requirements. Additional documentation may be required during the review process.
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Homeowner permit applications are available through the Building Department and must be submitted in accordance with the City's current application procedures. At the moment, homeowners cannot apply for permits online. It requires a walk in. Homeowners must visit the office and bring the following documents:

• Tax Statement or Deed
• Material List (quote or receipt of materials)
• Dumpster Receipt (if applicable)
• Drivers License or State ID
• If structural work is being performed, a site plan is needed for Zoning Department review.
  * PERMITS DOES NOT HAVE STANDARD/SET FEES
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Contractor Licenses

Contractors performing regulated work within the City of Gary may be required to obtain the appropriate City of Gary contractor license before performing work. Licensing requirements vary based on the type of work and license being requested. Certain license types may require a qualifying examination. Contractors licensed in another municipality may also qualify under the City's reciprocity requirements, subject to verification and applicable qualifications.

• Learn about contractor licenses here: Notice to Contractors and General Public (pdf)
• Apply for a contractor’s license here: Contractor’s Application Packet (pdf)
• Learn about contractor reciprocity: Click here.
• If your contractor’s license application requires a test, apply here: Contractor’s Licensing Exam Packet (pdf)
• Scope of Work for Oral Interview and Written Exams (pdf)
• List of licensed contractors (pdf)
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Inspection Services

The Building Department’s Inspection Services ensures public safety by enforcing Municipal and State Codes regarding construction, alteration, and the installation of electrical and plumbing equipment and systems.

Inspections must be scheduled 24-72 hours prior to requested date.

Inspection Fees

• Inspection fees are $50.00 per inspection. Several Inspections will be required during construction including building, plumbing, electrical and HVAC.
• Failed inspections and failure to appear for inspections require a $100.00 re-inspection fee to be paid before any other inspections will be conducted.

Nipsco Inspections

Utilities disconnected for 90 days or more will require an inspection to reconnected services for Nipsco. Inspection fee is $50.00. Return the Nipsco Release Form to the Building Department along with $50.00, to be paid before an inspection is scheduled.

• IF you are a TENANT:  Bring a copy of lease as proof of residency prior to your inspection request.
• IF you are an OWNER:  Bring proof of ownership (ie. current mortgage statement, tax documents, title, deed, etc.) prior to your inspection request.
• IF you are an AUTHORIZED AGENT: Bring a notarized authorization letter and Driver’s License.