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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Hancock County
County applications and instructions cover residential new homes, attached and detached accessory structures, residential alterations, non-residential construction, signs, change of use, and electrical work.
Note: No consolidated county exempt-work list was clearly posted. Because the county publishes permit-type specific applications rather than a single exemption table, confirm any claimed exemption directly with the Building Department before starting work.
- Application form
- Site plan
- Construction plans
- Septic or sewer/water proof
- Driveway permit where required
- Drainage approval where required
- IDHS release where required
- Building code
- County/state code enforcement through Hancock County Planning and Building and related IDHS requirements.
- Permit validity
- County non-residential instructions state permits are valid for 12 months following issuance.
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Identify the correct county permit type using the Permit Requirements page.
- 02 Download the matching application and instruction sheet.
- 03 Complete required outside consultations and approvals for septic, driveway, drainage, fire, utilities, and IDHS design release where applicable.
- 04 Submit plans, forms, and required supporting materials to Hancock County Planning and Building. For non-residential permits, email PDF plans to scott.williams@hancockin.gov in addition to paper submissions.
- 05 Pay combined planning/building fees as required.
- 06 Obtain issued permit and complete county inspections before occupancy/use.
Fee schedule
Hancock County building permit fees
Applicants may owe both planning and building fees depending on the project.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- 317-477-1133 (phone)
- scott.williams@hancockin.gov (email)
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Hancock County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Hancock County, IN? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in unincorporated Hancock County, IN? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Hancock County, IN? ▸
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Hancock County, IN? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Hancock County Planning and Building Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.