Building Permit Checklist: Documents You Need in Indiana

Published February 23, 2026 · By Permit Finder

Before You Apply

Getting your documents together before applying saves time and prevents delays. Here’s what you’ll need for a building permit in most Indiana jurisdictions.

Residential Building Permit Checklist

Always Required

• Completed permit application — Available from your local building department or their online portal
• Site plan / plot plan — Shows property boundaries, existing structures, proposed construction, and setback dimensions. Must be drawn to scale.
• Construction drawings — Floor plans, elevations, and cross-sections. Must show dimensions, materials, and structural details.
• Proof of contractor registration — Your contractor must be registered or licensed in the jurisdiction where you’re building.

Often Required

• Structural engineering plans — Required for additions, structural modifications, and any project involving load-bearing changes
• Energy compliance documentation — Indiana requires compliance with the Indiana Energy Conservation Code
• Truss engineering letters — If using manufactured trusses, the truss manufacturer provides engineering documentation
• HOA approval letter — Many jurisdictions require proof of HOA approval if your property is in a homeowners association
• Septic system permit — For properties not on municipal sewer (county jurisdictions)
• Floodplain development permit — If your property is in a FEMA flood zone

For Specific Project Types

Deck:

• Deck plan with dimensions and materials
• Footing details (depth below frost line — 36” in Indiana)
• Railing specifications (for decks 30”+ above grade)
• Ledger board attachment details

Fence:

• Fence location on site plan
• Height and material specifications
• Gate locations

Addition:

• All items from “Always Required” above
• Existing floor plan showing connection point
• Foundation plan for new addition
• Roof plan showing how new and existing roofs connect

Commercial Building Permit Checklist

Commercial projects require more extensive documentation:

• Architectural drawings — Complete set stamped by a licensed architect
• Structural engineering plans — Stamped by a licensed structural engineer
• Mechanical/HVAC plans — System layout, ductwork, equipment specifications
• Electrical plans — Panel schedules, circuit layouts, lighting plans
• Plumbing plans — Fixture locations, pipe sizing, drainage
• Fire protection plans — Sprinkler layout, fire alarm system, exit plans
• ADA compliance documentation — Accessibility requirements per the Americans with Disabilities Act
• Environmental review — May be required depending on location and project scope

Tips for a Clean Submission

1. Check the specific jurisdiction — Requirements vary between cities and counties. What Indianapolis requires may differ from what Carmel or Fishers needs.
2. Submit digitally when possible — Most jurisdictions now accept PDF uploads, which speeds up the review process.
3. Label everything clearly — Include project address, owner name, and date on every page.
4. Use the correct scale — Most jurisdictions require plans at 1/4” = 1’ for residential and 1/8” = 1’ for commercial.
5. Include material specifications — Don’t just draw it; specify the materials (e.g., “2x10 pressure-treated southern pine joists @ 16” O.C.”).

Common Reasons for Rejection

• Missing setback dimensions on site plan
• No structural details for load-bearing modifications
• Plans not drawn to scale
• Missing contractor registration
• Incomplete application form
• No energy compliance documentation

Next Steps

Find the specific requirements for your jurisdiction on our Indiana permit directory. Each jurisdiction page lists the exact documents needed and links to their online portal.