Building Commissioner
Welcome to the office of the Building Commissioner for the City of Sullivan. Our mission is to ensure all construction, remodeling, vacant land upkeep, and infrastructure improvements within the city comply with state and local codes—promoting safe, attractive and functional development while working cooperatively with residents and contractors.
Brian Pound serves as the City of Sullivan’s Building Commissioner, appointed by the mayor to a four-year term. With many years of hands-on experience across all areas of the construction industry, Brian brings deep knowledge and practical insight to his role. He ensures that all construction, remodeling, and property maintenance within the city meet state and local codes.
What We Do
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Review and issue building permits for new construction, renovation and demolition.
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Investigate complaints concerning property maintenance, health & safety, overgrown lots and other nuisance violations.
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Inspect properties regularly to ensure zoning and city code compliance.
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Advise property owners, contractors and developers on code requirements, project planning and permit processes.
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Code enforcement
When a Permit is Required
You’ll need to apply for a permit in advance for work such as:
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New construction of any building or structure.
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Relocating an existing structure.
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Major remodeling that changes the structure (e.g., adding or removing load-bearing walls).
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Building a room addition, covered patio, deck or gazebo.
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Installing an in-ground or above-ground pool or exterior spa/hot tub.
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Changing fuel/energy sources (for example a furnace or water heater) or installing a new wood-burning stove or fireplace.
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Modifying the roof pitch or slope of a structure.
When a Permit is Not Required
You typically do not need a permit for work like:
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Replacing doors or windows provided the opening size isn’t changed.
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Installing/replacing siding, soffit, trim or insulation.
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Painting, wallpapering, installing floor coverings or cabinets/shelves (when no structural or code-changes are involved).
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Replacing an attic fan, bath fan, or range hood fan if the opening remains unchanged.
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Replacing appliances, fixtures, traps or valves in an existing plumbing system.
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Replacing a water heater with a model that uses the same venting/energy type.
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Removing shingles and re-roofing if you do not change the roof’s pitch or structural framing.
Building Commissioner – City of Sullivan
110 N. Main Street
Sullivan, Indiaan 47882
Phone: 812-268-6077
Who Should Apply for a Permit
The person or business performing the work is responsible for applying for the building permit.
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Homeowners should apply if they are completing the work themselves on their own property. This includes projects such as room additions, garages, decks, or small remodeling jobs that do not require a licensed contractor.
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Licensed contractors must apply when they are hired to perform the work. The permit should be issued in the contractor’s name, as they are responsible for ensuring the project meets all state and local building codes.
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Property owners hiring multiple contractors (for example, a general contractor, electrician, and plumber) should make sure that each contractor obtains the necessary permit(s) for their portion of the work.
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Developers and business owners undertaking new construction or tenant build-outs must apply before work begins, often through a licensed contractor or project manager. Building permits are required to protect both the property owner and the contractor. They ensure that work is done safely, inspected properly, and compliant with the City of Sullivan’s codes. Starting construction without an approved permit can result in fines, stop-work orders, or delays in occupancy approval.
If you’re unsure who should apply for your specific project, contact the Building Commissioner’s Office at 812-268-6077 for guidance before beginning any work.