Are you ready to build a shed in your backyard in Indiana, but don’t know where to start? Navigating the legal requirements for new construction can be confusing. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know in order to get a shed permit in Indiana. From what size shed requires a permit, to the steps for getting your permit, and even if you can utilize your shed as a dwelling unit. We’ll ensure that you construct a shed that’s not only safe, but complies with your local regulations.
Do I Need A Building Permit For A Shed in Indiana?
Yes, you will need to get a permit if the shed you’re planning to build a shed with a floor area that is greater than 120 square feet, as outlined in the 2012 International Building Code that Indiana has adopted. This may vary depending on where exactly you live in Indiana. It’s best to check with your local building, zoning, or permit office to determine the exact permit requirements in your area.
Can I Build A Shed Without A Permit in Indiana?
Yes, the state of Indiana does not require a permit for single-story detached sheds that have a floor area of 120 square feet or less. This may not be the case depending on where you reside in Indiana. Permits are important as they certify that your building has been constructed safely and securely, and can even increase the value of your property. It’s always best to check with your local government to find out if you need a permit for your shed.
How Big Can A Shed Be Without A Permit in Indiana?
The maximum size for a shed to be built without requiring a shed permit in Indiana is 120 square feet. Of course, this may vary depending on where you live. Check out our resources below to get in contact with your local officials and determine the requirements in your area.
How To Get A Shed Permit in Indiana
The exact steps for acquiring a shed permit in Indiana will vary depending on where you reside in the state. However, in general, here are some common steps you can follow in order to obtain a shed permit in Indiana:
- Contact Your Local Zoning or Building Department
First, you should always visit your local building department’s website or give them a call to determine what their requirements are for constructing a shed, submitting a permit, and receiving approval. Below are resources to nearly every county in Indiana so you can get in contact with the proper authorities.
- Prepare Your Plans
Most permit applications will require you to submit detailed plans of the shed you plan to build. This typically details a legal description of your property, the site plan drawn to scale, the foundation and floor plan, and any load-bearing walls from footer up to the roof system.
- Submit Your Application
Now that you’ve filled out the application and attached the necessary building plans and documents, all you need to do is pay the necessary fee and submit your application. Below we’ll cover the cost of obtaining a shed permit in Indiana.
- Wait For Approval
Once submitted, your local permit office will review your application to ensure that everything complies with regulations. You may have to schedule a number of inspections as well. We’ll also let you know how long you can expect wait for approval on your shed permit in Indiana below.
- Build Your Shed
Once you have approval, you can construct your shed according to the plans you submitted.
- Obtain Final Approval
When you’re done building your shed, you may need to schedule one last inspection to ensure that everything was built in accordance with the accepted plan. You’ll also want to obtain your certificate of completion, certifying that your shed was built in accordance with regulations.
How Much Does A Shed Permit Cost in Indiana?
The exact cost for a shed permit in Indiana will vary depending on the municipality and the size of the shed, on average, you can expect to pay between $50 to $100 for your permit. Permit fees are often charged by the square footage of your structure, so it’s best to check with your local building department and see what the charge per square foot of your shed.
How Long Does It Take To Get A Shed Permit in Indiana?
You can typically expect to wait 7 to 10 business days to receive approval on your shed permit in Indiana. However, the exact wait time will depend on the area you live in and their workload.
Indiana Building Permit Requirements By County
Wandering if your county in Indiana requires a building permit to construct a shed and what exactly the requirements are to get your permit? Linked below our resources to counties in Indiana that outline their requirements or provide the contact information of the government official you should contact with any questions.
Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Wanatah, Indiana?
Yes, the city of Wanatah, Indiana has adopted the 2012 International Building Code meaning that if your shed is greater than 120 square feet, you will need to get a building permit before construction.
Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Wabash, Indiana?
Yes. On their web page, the city of Wabash says that a permit is required and provide a phone number for you to call for specific guidelines on obtaining permits.
Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Kokomo, Indiana?
The city of Kokomo, Indiana has also adopted the 2012 International Building Code requirements that the state of Indiana enforces, meaning that yes, you will need a permit to build a shed that’s greater than 120 square feet.
Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Auburn, Indiana?
Yes, they require a building permit any time a new shed or accessory structure is being built.
Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Rochester, Indiana?
It is likely that they do as Fulton County requires a permit before beginning construction, alteration, or repair of any building or structure that costs over $1,500. However, for specifics, visit the city of Rochester’s department website.
Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Fort Wayne, Indiana?
It is unclear per the city of Fort Wayne, Indiana website exactly what the minimum requirements for an accessory structure is. According to Allen County, if your shed is over 200 square feet, you will need to obtain a permit.
Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Fishers, Indiana?
Yes, they require a permit for any new construction, alteration, repair, or demolition of any building or structure as per their code of ordinances.
Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in South Bend, Indiana?
Yes, you need a permit for that! According to this PDF, a permit is required for an accessory building over 120 square feet, which includes sheds.
Do I Need A Permit To Build A Shed in Indianapolis?
Yes. If you plan to build a shed that is greater than 120 square feet, higher than 15 feet tall, has a permanent foundation, or utility connections, then you will need a shed permit in Indianapolis. If you’re structure is less than this or doesn’t have any of the permanent connections, then you do not need a permit.
Other FAQs
Can I Live in A Shed in Indiana?
Yes, it’s possible to live in a shed in Indiana. However, there are extensive residential building codes you’d need to comply with in order for this to be possible.
You may be able to live in a shed if they’re permitted as an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) or if tiny homes are allowed in your area. However, this would require many additional features to be added to the typical shed design such as insulation, plumbing, electrical systems, more floor area, and more.
As always, we highly recommend that you check with your local building department to see if living in a shed as your permanent residence or as an ADU is permitted.
Can I Convert A Shed Into A Home Office in Indiana?
Yes, it’s a little bit easier to comply with the regulations regarding converting a shed into a home office in Indiana, as permanent dwelling units have stricter requirements. In order to convert your shed into a home office, you’ll likely need to complete some structural changes or additions such as electrical, plumbing, additional windows, and more.
Check with your local building department to see what their requirements are for converting a shed into a home office.
Ready To Build A Shed in Indiana?
If you’re searching for a quality shed builder who offers a variety of shed designs that can be equipped to handle your unique needs, we’ve got you covered. Explore our range of sheds, and we’ll start creating a shed designed to meet your local requirements. Have any additional questions about obtaining a shed permit in Indiana? Contact us, and we’ll do our best to answer them!