Indiana’s building permitting system is split between state-level oversight and local government enforcement. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS), Division of Fire and Building Safety enforces the Indiana Building Code.
Most residential projects are permitted and inspected at the municipal or county level, while many commercial, industrial, institutional, and multifamily projects require plan review and permitting directly through the state. Contractors should plan carefully, as requirements and timelines can differ significantly depending on project type and location.
Who issues building permits in Indiana?
Responsibility depends on project type:
- Residential permits: Issued by local building departments at the city, town, or county level.
- Commercial and industrial permits: Reviewed and issued by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, Division of Fire and Building Safety.
- Specialized permits: Trade permits (plumbing, electrical, mechanical) are usually handled by municipalities, while state fire safety reviews apply to larger occupancies.
Examples of permit-issuing jurisdictions in Indiana:
- Indianapolis Department of Business and Neighborhood Services
- Porter County Building Department
- Allen County Building Department
When do you need an Indiana building permit?
A building permit in Indiana is required for most new construction, structural changes, and major system installations.
Typical projects include:
- New residential and commercial buildings
- Additions, alterations, and structural remodels
- Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work
- Fire protection systems and accessibility upgrades
- Roof replacements, siding, and window installations (in most municipalities)
- Demolition of structures
- Manufactured home placement and modular building installations
Exemptions (vary by jurisdiction):
- Cosmetic interior updates like painting, flooring, or cabinets
- Small storage sheds or outbuildings below a square footage threshold (check with local code officials)
- Non-structural repairs
Indiana building permit requirements
A typical permit application in Indiana requires:
- Completed permit application form
- Site plan and property survey
- Construction drawings (stamped by an Indiana-licensed architect/engineer for commercial projects)
- Contractor licensing or registration (if required by the jurisdiction)
- Energy code compliance documentation
- Estimated project cost
For commercial and multifamily projects, submissions must also comply with:
- Indiana Fire Code and accessibility requirements
- State plan review by IDHS
- Special inspections where required by code
Indiana building permit costs
Indiana permit fees vary by jurisdiction and project valuation.
Typical ranges include:
- Residential new construction: $150–$500 depending on municipality and size
- Commercial projects: $1,000–$10,000+ (based on project valuation and square footage)
- Trade permits (plumbing, mechanical, electrical): $50–$200 each
- Demolition permits: $50–$300 depending on structure size
Unique considerations when permitting in Indiana
Energy codes
Indiana enforces its own modified energy code—contractors should confirm compliance early in design.
Accessibility standards
All commercial projects must meet Indiana’s accessibility rules, based on ADA standards.
Floodplain permitting
Many municipalities require additional approvals for development in flood-prone areas.
Licensing
Some cities (e.g., Indianapolis) require contractor registration or licensing before issuing permits.
How to get a building permit in Indiana
Steps generally include:
- Determine authority – Check if the project falls under local jurisdiction (residential, small projects) or state plan review (commercial, multifamily).
- Prepare documents – Collect plans, site drawings, and compliance forms.
- Submit application – Apply through the municipal building department or the IDHS online portal for state-level projects.
- Plan review – Local inspectors or IDHS staff review plans for compliance with building, fire, and energy codes.
- Pay fees – Based on valuation, square footage, or project category.
- Receive permit – Must be posted at the job site during construction.
- Schedule inspections – Foundation, framing, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and final inspections are typical.
