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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Washington
Permits are required within city limits and the 2-mile area around the city for new construction, signs, re-roofs, additions, fences, pools, demolitions, and storage sheds.
- Exempt Siding
- Exempt Replacement windows
- Exempt Doors
- Exempt Remodeling
Note: The city permit page specifically states these items do not need permits, but applicants should confirm edge cases with the Building Commissioner's Office.
- Owner-builder
- Owner or contractor may obtain the permit.
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Determine whether the work is in the city limits or the 2-mile area around Washington.
- 02 Confirm whether a permit is needed before construction starts.
- 03 Obtain the permit from the Building Commissioner's Office; the city states owner or contractor may obtain it.
- 04 If the project needs a variance or conditional use, obtain that from the Board of Zoning Appeals.
- 05 Start work only after the permit is secured.
- 06 Complete the needed inspections through the office.
- 07 Close out with final approval.
Fee schedule
Washington building permit fees
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Inspection hours
- Building Commission office hours are Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Washington permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Washington, IN? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Washington, IN? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Washington, IN? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in Washington, IN? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Building Commission, City of Washington before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.