Columbus, IN Building Safety: Building Inspections (2026)

Section 15.04.160 of the Columbus Municipal Code puts the duty on the department: after the permit issues, it makes or causes to be made an inspection of the construction to ensure full compliance with the building code and the terms of the permit. Inspections of construction found to be incomplete are subject to assessment of reinspection fees as set out in Section 15.04.140.

Section 15.04.140 says a reinspection caused by defects or improper information requires a new permit for that phase of work requiring reinspection before approval. The fee schedule in Section 15.04.100 prices the reinspection at a minimum of thirty dollars per inspection. That schedule also builds inspections into the permit price: electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning and sprinkler permits each carry thirty dollars for the first inspection plus thirty dollars for each additional inspection, and the residential swimming pool permit includes two inspections.

Section 15.04.170 gives the chief code enforcement officer or any assistant chief code enforcement officer entry authority: upon presentation of proper credentials, an officer can enter at reasonable times any construction, structure or premises in the city to perform any duty the building code imposes. Section 15.04.180 adds the stop order: whenever construction is being accomplished contrary to the building code, the department can order the work stopped by written notice served on any person engaged in it, and the work stays stopped until the department grants authorization.

Inspection outcomes carry weight at the end of the job. Section 15.04.190 bars a certificate of occupancy unless construction complies with the chapter, and Section 15.04.200 requires all construction to be performed in a good and workmanlike manner in accordance with accepted trade standards and practices. A person disputing the department's reading of the adopted Indiana building rules has a right of appeal to the Indiana Department of Fire and Building Services under Section 15.04.230.