Building Permits

When is a building permit required?

A building permit is required for new residential structures and additions or expansions to residential structures. Residential structures include homes, duplex, townhouses, apartments, manufactured homes, mobile homes, etc. Foundation replacement and electrical service upgrades require building permits. A new roof requires a building permit if the roof is being installed by a contractor.

Building permits are required for accessory structures including pole barns, signs, towers, garages, carports, decks, sheds larger than 300 square feet, swimming pools, and other accessory buildings. Building permits are required for new commercial and industrial buildings and additions or expansions of these buildings.

This is not an all inclusive list. If a particular project is not listed, please contact the DeKalb County Building Department.

When is a building permit NOT required?

Building permits are not required for grade level patios, painting, paneling, siding, gutter and downspout replacement, insulation, window and door replacement of a like size, and other cosmetic improvements not affecting electrical, plumbing or mechanical systems.

How do I obtain a building permit?

The City of Butler hires the DeKalb County Building Department to issue building permits and conduct subsequent building inspections. Certain projects require an Improvement Location Permit from the City of Butler before a building permit can be issued. Commercial and industrial projects typically require State Design Release as a prerequisite to the building permit.

Building permit forms are not available online. To obtain a building permit, visit the DeKalb County Building Department in the DeKalb County Annex Building at 301 South Union Street, Auburn, Indiana.

How long does it take to obtain a permit?

If all the necessary prerequisites (improvement location permit, state design release, and drawings) are in order, the building permit is issued at the same time application is made.

How much does a permit cost?

The permit cost is based on the amount of square footage the permit covers. For residential permits, there is a $25 minimum fee.

Who do I contact for more information?

The DeKalb County Building Department can answer questions about building permits.

DeKalb County Building Department
301 South Union Street
Auburn IN 46706
(260) 925-3021
(260) 927-4779 fax
bperry@co.dekalb.in.us