On this page 6
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Gary
A building permit is required for new construction, alterations, some repairs, and installation of electrical and plumbing fixtures within the City of Gary.
Note: Specific exemptions from Gary's permit requirements are not detailed in publicly available materials. Contact the Building Department.
- Completed application form
- Project plans and drawings
- Proof of property ownership or authorization
- Building code
- South Dakota requires adoption of at least the 2021 International Building Code. Contact the Building Department for confirmation of Gary's specific code edition.
- Permit validity
- Permit expires if work has not begun within 180 days. Work must be substantially completed within 2 years.
- Owner-builder
- Under certain conditions, homeowners may be permitted to perform work on their own property without a contractor license.
- Contractor requirements
- All contractors and subcontractors must be licensed with the City of Gary. Contractors must also be registered under SDCL Chapter 36-21C for residential work. Contractor's Excise Tax License required from South Dakota Department of Revenue.
Source: Building Department ↗
Application process
Typical processing: Not publicly stated; contact department for current estimate
- 01 Contact the Building Department via email (building@gary.gov) or in person at City Hall.
- 02 Obtain building permit application form and required documentation checklist.
- 03 Prepare application materials for permitted work types (new construction, alterations, repairs, electrical/plumbing installations).
- 04 Submit application and supporting documents to the Building Department.
- 05 Building Department reviews application for compliance with local codes.
- 06 Pay applicable permit and contractor licensing fees.
- 07 Receive issued permit; post on site before construction begins.
- 08 Schedule and complete required inspections.
Typical processing time: Not publicly stated; contact department for current estimate
Source: Building Department ↗
Fee schedule
Gary building permit fees
Contact the Building Department for current fee schedule, contractor licensing fees, plan review fees, and inspection fees.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (605) 272-5651 (phone)
- building@gary.gov (email)
- Scheduling deadline
- Not publicly stated; contact department
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Thursday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Closed Fridays)
- Time windows
- Not publicly detailed; contact department
Typical sequence: Building Department conducts inspections to ensure safe construction. Specific inspection timelines and procedures not publicly available.
Source: Building Department ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Gary permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Gary, SD? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Gary, SD? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Gary, SD? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Gary, SD? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Gary, SD? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Building Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.