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1. Why do I need a permit?

A permit is a way of providing reasonable controls for the design, construction, use, occupancy, and maintenance of buildings, their facilities, and various components. The permit document shows that a building project is being constructed under processes for ensuring code compliance and public safety.

2. Do I need a permit to install a gas line for a grill or fire pit?

To install a grill or fire pit with gas line, lease complete an HVAC permit application.

If you are installing a fire pit without gas lines, please contact the Fire Department for guidelines about distance at 317-595-3200.

If you have further questions, please contact Permits and Inspections at 317-595-3120.

3. Do I need a permit to extend or enlarge my driveway?

Yes, the maximum width of a driveway must not exceed 24’. A Right of Way permit is required, which you can apply for here. For more information, contact the Department of Engineering at (317) 595-3160.

4. Do I need a permit to enclose a porch?

If you are screening in an existing covered porch or covered deck, a permit is not required. If you are making a weatherproof enclosure of an existing porch or deck, a permit is required. Because it extends the "indoor" area of the house, enclosing a porch or a deck is considered an addition and is subject to the same setback limitations as the house itself. For additional information and permit fees, contact the Department of Community Development at (317) 595-3120.

5. My Home Owner’s Association (HOA) is telling me that I cannot build my project. Is this true?

While your project may be approved by the city you should check your deed restrictions and HOA requirements before applying for a permit. Deed restrictions and HOA requirements may supersede city requirements. The city does not enforce HOA deed restrictions and/or covenants.

6. How long will it take to get my residential permit application approved?

If all the required information is included at the time of submittal, in most cases it will take no more than 15 working days. You will be notified by email when it has been reviewed and approved.

7. How long is my permit valid after being issued?

Work must commence within 12 months from date of issuance and project must be complete no more than 24 months after permit issuance unless good cause for an extension of completion time can be shown.

8. Who is my inspector and what time will he be here to conduct my inspection?

You may contact the Department of Permits and Inspections by 9:00am on the day of your inspection to speak with the assigned inspector about an approximate time, according to his schedule. Timed inspections are primarily performed for concrete placement inspections such as footing and driveway/sidewalk inspections.

 In the event your project is located in an existing occupied residence, you may contact us to set up a timed inspection. Examples: basement finish, residential remodel and residential room addition. We also perform timed inspections for Commercial construction final inspections.

9. When do I get my Certificate of Occupancy?

Residential: Upon approval of final inspection, your  Certificate of Occupancy may be obtained from your contractor.  If you are the contractor, you may print your Certificate of Occupancy directly from your ViewPoint Cloud account. If you need further assistance, please contact our Permits and Inspections department at 317-595-3120. 

Commercial: After final inspection approval, the inspector will start the process for the issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy. Commercial Certificates of Occupancy are issued when all project commitments have been completed or dates scheduled for completion accepted. Final inspection approval and issuance of Certificate of Occupancy include reviews and inspections by the following departments: Community Development, Fire Department, and Engineering Department.

10. Why should my contractor pull the permit instead of me, the homeowner?

When a contractor is hired, they must pull the permit because they are doing the work and will be responsible for making sure the work meets the city’s code requirements. They are required to be registered with the city. Always ask to see the permit before work is started.

11. What method of payment can I use to pay for my permit?

You may pay with exact cash, check, or credit card. Please note that credit card payments will be charged a convenience fee for all transactions. You may pay online with a credit card or at the City Services Building at 3 Municipal Drive, Fishers, with any of the methods above. 

12. How do I obtain a building permit?

All building permits are applied for and processed online.  

Please visit: https://fishersin.viewpointcloud.com/ .  

If you have questions for Permitting and Inspections: give them a call at 317-595-3120 or visit our website: http://www.fishers.in.us/422/Permitting-Inspections 

13. How do I schedule an inspection for my new or remodel project?

Inspections for your new or remodel construction project can be ordered online at www.fishersin.viewpointcloud.com.  If you have further questions, please contact our Permits and Inspections department at 317-595-3120.