38-25 Amending Articles 1 Through 7 and Article 11 of Chapter 6 of the South Bend Municipal Code to Update Regulations Governing the Building Department

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Filed in Clerk's Office JUN U5 2025 Bianca Tirado City Clerk, South Bend, IN Executive Summary: Proposed Revisions to the Building Department Ordinance The proposed ordinance introduces key updates to South Bend's Building Department regulations to improve clarity,efficiency, and alignment with state standards.These changes focus on fee adjustments, procedural enhancements, and updated definitions to support the department's operations and enforcement capabilities.The revisions address longstanding challenges and incorporate best practices to enhance regulatory oversight. Key Changes: 1. Permit Fee Adjustments—The ordinance increases permit fees to account for inflation and generate revenue necessary to support staffing and department programs.The revised fee structure ensures that the costs associated with permit processing, inspections, and enforcement are adequately funded without creating an undue burden on applicants.The adjustments align South Bend's fees with those of comparable municipalities, ensuring sustainable operations.A market analysis comparing permit fees across Indiana municipalities shows that South Bend's proposed fee increase remains competitive white ensuring adequate resources for enforcement and oversight.The revised structure balances the need for revenue generation with fairness to applicants. 2. Alignment with State Definitions—Definitions have been updated to align with the Rules of the Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission,ensuring consistency in interpretation and enforcement. By adopting these standardized definitions,the ordinance minimizes ambiguities that can lead to inconsistent enforcement and administrative inefficiencies.This alignment also facilitates coordination between local and state agencies. 3. Inspection Protocol Enhancements—Clearer guidelines for inspections have been introduced to improve consistency, efficiency, and compliance enforcement.The revised protocols define the roles and responsibilities of inspectors, outline inspection timelines, and set clear expectations for permit holders.Additionally,the ordinance includes measures to improve communication between inspectors and contractors, reducing delays and disputes. 4. Stop Work Order and Cease and Desist Capability—The ordinance strengthens enforcement measures by formally establishing stop work orders and cease and desist directives.This provision grants the Building Commissioner the authority to halt construction activities that violate regulations,ensuring immediate compliance and mitigating safety risks. 5. Abandoned Construction Projects—A new process has been established to address stalled or abandoned construction projects, providing a structured approach to enforcement and resolution.The ordinance sets criteria for identifying abandoned projects and outlines steps for securing sites, notifying responsible parties,and, if necessary, enforcing corrective actions.This provision ensures that incomplete projects do not become long-term safety hazards or contribute to urban blight. 6. Expanded Inspection and Investigation Authority—Under Sec.6-4.8,the Building Commissioner is granted the authority to inspect all construction, regardless of whether a building permit has been obtained.This ensures compliance with building standards and the Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission's rules.The provision clarifies that