Building Plan Review

The Building Plan Review Section reviews Class 1 structure construction plans for compliance with the rules of the Indiana Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission, including the state-adopted building codes.

The work is done by a staff of dedicated building code professionals, who work diligently to protect the health and welfare of the occupants of Indiana’s built environment, while also serving as active partners in the ongoing economic development of the state.

The Indiana State Building Commissioner, appointed by the governor, oversees the Building Plan Review Section and Code Services Section. The governor appointed Alan Blunk as building commissioner in 2023. Learn more about him

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Plan Review Information

There are four steps in the building plan review process: application, input, review and release. All applications are submitted online, then are reviewed by Building Plan Review staff. View online filing requirements For overviews of the entire process, including the fee schedule and guidance on whether you need to file with the state or not, visit the Building Plan Review Process page. The page also includes application checklists and guidance information for specific types of projects. View overviews

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Building Plans

As of July 1, 2020, Indiana Code requires all applications to be filed electronically, unless it imposes an undue hardship. Before filing, you may want to review application checklists and other guidance. You can also access application forms in the table on the Applications, Forms and Permits page. File plan review application online In general, building plan reviews are handled on a first come, first served basis. The turnaround time for reviewing plans can lengthen if the submitted plans are incomplete or in conflict with design rules. Check project status or obtain copy of a release

Industrialized Buildings and Mobile Structures

Industrialized building systems are parts of buildings or other structures that are in whole or in substantial part fabricated off-site for installation or assembly at a building site as part of a Class 1 structure, Class 2 structure or another building or structure. Mobile structures are any part of a fabricated unit that is designed to be towed on its own chassis and connected to utilities for year-round occupancy or use as a Class 1 structure, Class 2 structure or another structure. File industrialized building or mobile structure application Look up releases for industrial buildings and mobile structures projects

Utility Scale Battery Energy Storage Systems

Utility Scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) must receive IDHS approval for installation or expansion. File BESS application or notice online

Group of architects looking at building plans

Building plan reviews are required for Class 1 structures, and many details are required as part of the application process. Depending on the nature of your project, you may be required to submit plans for fire suppression hoods, plumbing or electrical features. View submittal checklists and guidance by project type Sometimes it can be difficult to determine if your project is exempt from filing with the state, or whom you should contact with questions. See the Frequently Asked Questions page first before reaching out. View frequently asked questions

Building plans and money

Payment for application fees are made online (credit card or e-check) using the Design Release Service. Exception: Industrialized building or mobile structure payments Review fee schedule Note: Find the fee schedule listed in Article 12, Rule 3, starting on page 5.

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Additional Resources

Indiana Department of Homeland Security

Contact Us

Business hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday except state-observed holidays

Indiana Government Center South
302 W. Washington St., Room E208
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204