Town of English, IN - 2026 Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

Town of English corporate limits and extraterritorial zoning and platting jurisdiction

Department

Town of English Building Commissioner / Zoning Administrator

Address

English Town Hall, 201 S. Indiana Avenue, English, IN 47118

Phone

812-338-2654

Website

https://www.ind15rpc.org/wp-content/themes/region15/codes/english/English-Title10.pdf

Application Process

1. Prepare a plat or sketch of the proposed location showing lot boundaries and plans and specifications showing the work to be done.
2. If the project is covered by a state design release, provide the Design Release issued by the State Building Commissioner and State Fire Marshal.
3. File the application using forms furnished by the Building Commissioner.
4. The Building Commissioner reviews the application for code compliance and flood safety as applicable.
5. After approval, the permit is issued.

Source: Town of English Building Commissioner / Zoning Administrator

General Requirements

A building permit is required before beginning construction, alteration, or repair of any building or structure when the cost exceeds $500.

Required Documents

• Plat or sketch showing lot boundaries
• Plans and specifications showing the work
• State design release for covered construction

Permit validity

Improvement location permits must begin within 180 days of issuance and be completed within 1 year or they expire.

Building code

Indiana Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission rules incorporated by reference; Indiana Building Code; Indiana One and Two Family Dwelling Code; Indiana Plumbing Code; Indiana Electrical Code; Indiana Mechanical Code; Indiana Energy Conservation Code; Indiana Swimming Pool Code

Fees

Permit fee formula

Improvement location permit fee is set by Town Council / Advisory Plan Commission exhibit, not printed in the ordinance.

Reinspection fee

Reinspection fees are authorized for work found incomplete or not ready for inspection.

Penalty (no permit)

Penalties for violations are $100 to $1,000 per violation, with each day a separate offense.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

• Routine maintenance, repair, or remodeling of existing structures not involving a change in use, additional lot coverage, or increase in size
• Underground or overhead utility lines, signs, and related appurtenances other than buildings and primary structures erected by a public utility or public agency
• Lot improvements such as sidewalks, landscaping, play equipment, flag poles, and lawn and garden equipment
• Structures accessory to an agricultural cultivation or husbandry land use

Inspections

How to Schedule

Typical inspection sequence: Building Commissioner reviews permit applications. Inspections occur after permit issuance as needed for compliance. Fire chief or designee assists for fire suppression, detection, and alarm systems. Certificate of occupancy is required before occupancy.

Additional Resources

• Building code: Indiana Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission rules incorporated by reference; Indiana Building Code; Indiana One and Two Family Dwelling Code; Indiana Plumbing Code; Indiana Electrical Code; Indiana Mechanical Code; Indiana Energy Conservation Code; Indiana Swimming Pool Code
• Town code and building code source
• English town hall reference page
• License lookup guide: Indiana Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: Indiana Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• Indiana hub: Indiana Contractor License & Permit Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Town of English Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Town of English, IN?

A building permit is required before beginning construction, alteration, or repair of any building or structure when the cost exceeds $500.

How much does a building permit cost in Town of English, IN?

Fees are calculated as: Improvement location permit fee is set by Town Council / Advisory Plan Commission exhibit, not printed in the ordinance..

How do I apply for a building permit in Town of English, IN?

1. Prepare a plat or sketch of the proposed location showing lot boundaries and plans and specifications showing the work to be done. 2. If the project is covered by a state design release, provide the Design Release issued by the State Building Commissioner and State Fire Marshal. 3. File the application using forms furnished by the Building Commissioner. 4. The Building Commissioner reviews the application for code compliance and flood safety as applicable. 5. After approval, the permit is issued.

What work is exempt from building permits in Town of English, IN?

The following work is generally exempt: Routine maintenance, repair, or remodeling of existing structures not involving a change in use, additional lot coverage, or increase in size; Underground or overhead utility lines, signs, and related appurtenances other than buildings and primary structures erected by a public utility or public agency; Lot improvements such as sidewalks, landscaping, play equipment, flag poles, and lawn and garden equipment; Structures accessory to an agricultural cultivation or husbandry land use.

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