Indiana, Vigo County Remodeler Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

Vigo County Building & Safety Division

The Vigo County Building Inspections Department, under the control of the County Commissioners, enforces Vigo County Ordinances and Building Codes. They issue building, electric, plumbing, and demolition permits and conduct all construction inspections. For properties within unincorporated Vigo County, the county's Building Inspections Department is the authority having jurisdiction for building permits.

Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas

Vigo County issues building permits exclusively for properties located in the unincorporated areas of the county. If a property is within an incorporated city, that city's building department is responsible for permits.

Permit Triggers for Demolition Work During a Remodel

A permit is required for any structure removal or remodel project exceeding $500.00. For demolition permits specifically, structures must be removed within 14 days of obtaining the permit. The application for a Demo/Remodel Permit is used for the removal of an existing primary or accessory structure, or for the remodel of an existing structure that includes work on the roof, gutters, windows, doors, or interior, provided it does not add square footage.

Permit Requirements for Converting Non-Living Spaces

Converting non-living spaces such as garages, attics, or unfinished basements into habitable living areas generally requires a permit. This is because these conversions involve creating new living spaces that must meet specific safety and occupancy building codes.

Garages

Converting a garage into a living space typically requires a building permit, which may involve submitting detailed plans for structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical modifications. A zoning permit may also be necessary to ensure compliance with local zoning regulations. The converted space must meet criteria for habitability, including minimum room dimensions, ceiling heights, and egress requirements.

Attics

Transforming an attic into a habitable space, such as a bedroom or office, almost always requires a permit. This is due to the need to meet safety standards, including minimum ceiling height (often at least 7 feet for 50% of the space), minimum room dimensions (e.g., 70 sq. ft. with a 7-foot width), and adequate egress, typically requiring a code-compliant staircase and an egress window. Structural changes to the roof or load-bearing walls, or extending electrical or HVAC systems, will also necessitate permits.

Unfinished Basements

While the provided search results do not explicitly detail permit requirements for unfinished basements, general renovation and remodel permit guidelines would likely apply. If the conversion involves structural changes, adding bedrooms, or altering electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems, a permit would be required. For instance, adding a bedroom may require a septic design report to ensure the system can handle the increased load.

Resources to Learn More

Note: The following state-wide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Indiana, including Vigo County.

Indiana Remodeler Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

Indiana State Building Codes and Legislation for Remodelers and Residential Renovations

Indiana's building codes and regulations for remodelers and residential renovations are primarily governed by state-level statutes and codes adopted by reference, with local governments generally unable to enact more restrictive codes than those set by the state. The state traditionally utilizes national model codes, which are then reviewed and amended before adoption into state law.

1. Adopted State Statutes and Codes

Indiana has adopted various building codes, often based on the International Code Council (ICC) series. As of recent information, the state has adopted codes that include:

The 2020 Indiana Residential Code, which is based on the 2018 International Residential Code (IRC), with Indiana amendments.
The Indiana Building Code, which is based on the 2012 International Building Code (IBC), with amendments.
Other adopted codes include the International Fire Code, International Fuel Gas Code, International Mechanical Code, and International Plumbing Code, with specific Indiana amendments and effective dates.
The state also adopts energy conservation codes, such as the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code - Residential.

While the 2021 IBC/IRC are mentioned in the prompt, Indiana's most recently cited adopted codes appear to be from the 2012 and 2018 series, with the 2020 Indiana Residential Code being in effect. The International Existing Building Code (IEBC) equivalent is not explicitly detailed in the search results, but the general building and residential codes would apply to existing structures with amendments.

2. Primary State Boards or Agencies

The primary state agencies involved in setting and enforcing building standards in Indiana are:

The Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission: This commission is responsible for adopting and approving building codes and amendments.
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS): Through its Division of Fire and Building Safety, the IDHS oversees building plan review and code enforcement. The State Building Commissioner, appointed by the governor, heads this division.
Local building departments or plan commissions in each city, town, or county are responsible for issuing permits, enforcing codes, and conducting inspections within their jurisdictions.

3. Classification of Remodels and Demolition Guidelines

Indiana's codes generally distinguish between cosmetic and structural alterations, with the latter typically requiring permits and stricter adherence to building codes.

Cosmetic Remodels: Minor repairs, painting, wallpapering, and small interior changes like adding shelves or non-plumbed/non-electrical island counters are generally considered cosmetic and do not require a permit.
Structural Alterations: Significant changes to the structure, such as adding rooms, removing walls, altering the roofline, or converting spaces like attics or basements into habitable areas, generally require a building permit. Converting basements to habitable spaces, for instance, may involve requirements like ensuring escape and rescue openings.
Demolition Guidelines: A demolition permit is required for the demolition or disassembly of any structure, regardless of size. To obtain a demolition permit, one typically needs to contact the local building department or code enforcement office. Required documentation often includes site plans, proof of utility disconnections, and information on debris disposal. In some cases, an asbestos survey may be necessary. Demolition plans may also need to address material management, including reduction, reuse, and recycling.

Resources to Learn More

Select a City in Vigo County

If your project is located within incorporated city limits, you will likely need to follow municipal ordinances rather than county rules. Select your city below to view local regulations.

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