When does a concrete project involve a permit?
Private patios, walks, and driveway surfaces can follow a different approval path from work in the public right-of-way. A driveway approach, curb, or sidewalk may involve right-of-way requirements; confirm the actual boundary for your property.
Mishawaka Engineering handles right-of-way work permits, including drive approaches and curb or sidewalk work. South Bend Engineering administers right-of-way work and relevant permit processes. Confirm current project requirements before work begins.
How should a driveway connection to the street be handled?
A driveway connection or public sidewalk can require a separate scope from the private driveway or patio. Confirm which parts of the work the estimate and permit application cover.
Ask the appropriate department about the property, intended use and right-of-way. Do not assume a universal exemption or blanket approval. Get the approval path in writing before scheduling.
Which office should you ask?
Use the property location and the work itself to find the starting point.
Local guidance distinguishes City or County Engineering for driveway permits. Some flatwork building exemptions have height, use, and foundation exceptions, so confirm the property and proposed work before assuming a permit is unnecessary.
Swipe across the table to compare all columns →
| Situation | Office to ask |
|---|---|
| Mishawaka driveway approach, curb or sidewalk work | Mishawaka Engineering |
| South Bend driveway connection or public-side sidewalk | South Bend Engineering |
| Property outside either city | County or local building authority |
| Private patio or walkway with no right-of-way work | Local building department |
Who contacts 811 before digging?
Before digging, a hired excavating contractor is responsible for contacting 811. Owners can confirm that the ticket was created and that positive responses came back.
Some private facilities require a separate locate. Scheduling must allow the official notice period and responses before anyone digs. Keep the locate information available on site.
A FEW MORE ANSWERS
Questions before you get started
Do I need a permit for a concrete patio?
Not every private patio follows the same path. Ask your local building department about the property and intended use, and confirm right-of-way rules if the work touches a street, curb or public sidewalk.
Who calls 811?
The excavating contractor who will dig is responsible for the 811 request. Owners can verify the ticket and positive responses, and private facilities may need a separate locate.