CELL TOWER PERMIT APPLICATION PACKAGE
CELL TOWER APPLICATION CHECKLIST
1. Application
2. Site Plan showing location of tower, setbacks, distance from residential uses, all existing structures, and
proposed changes.
3. Coverage area map if a part of a special use/exception or variance approval
4. Special use/exception and/or variance approvals if applicable http://www.sjcindiana.com/apc
5. Construction plans
NEW CELL TOWERS
If applying to construct a new tower, submit application to:
Area Plan for County Properties: http://www.sjcindiana.com/formcenter/area-plan-commission-forms-23/cell-tower-permit-application-89
City Zoning for City Properties: https://southbendin.gov/department/community-investment/planning-community-resources/zoning/
ADDITIONS & SUBSTANTIAL CHANGES TO EXISTING TOWERS
If making additions or substantial changes to existing cell towers, complete Sections 1 through 4 below and submit
application to the Building Department. *Permits are not required for work on external parts of antennas.
SUBSTANTIAL CHANGES TO EXISTING TOWERS
If making substantial changes to an existing tower, current development standards must be met and/or variances
must be applied for. A substantial change includes the following:
1. If new tower height is more than 10% higher than current height
2. If the tower is proposed to exceed 200ft
3. If the total number of cabinets for this application exceeds 4
4. If the distance between the new antenna and the antenna below it is less than 20 feet
5. If a new appurtenance protrudes 20 feet or more than the width of the tower at the point of installation (whichever
is greater)
6. If the compound is being expanded more than 2,500 sq/ft
7. If excavation is required outside of the boundaries of the leased of owned property or to any access or utility
easements related to the site
8. If you are making substantial changes that cause the tower to be less then 500ft from a residential use or district
9. If you are doing any electrical work that is not considered maintenance (work must be performed by an electrical
contractor licensed with our department)
DEMOLITION OR REMOVAL OF CELL TOWER OR EQUIPMENT
If demolishing a tower or removing equipment permanently fill out Sections 1-3 and sign at the end of Section 4.
WORK NOT REQUIRING PERMITS
If swapping out existing equipment or doing work that is considered maintenance no permit is required. If you are
not sure of what is considered maintenance feel free to contact us.
*Permits are not required for work on external parts of antennas.