Building Permits in City of Gary
Lake County, Indiana
401 Broadway, Suite 307, Gary, IN 46402
Phone: 219-881-1377
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Email: building@gary.gov
Official Website · Online Permit Portal
Permit Types & Fees
| Permit Type | Category | Fee | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residential Building Permit Required for new residential construction, additions, and major renovations within the City of Gary. | residential | Based on construction valuation | 2-4 weeks |
| Commercial Building Permit Required for commercial construction and renovations in Gary. | commercial | Based on construction valuation | 4-8 weeks |
| Electrical Permit Required for electrical work including new circuits, panel upgrades, and service changes. | trade | Contact office | 1-2 weeks |
| Plumbing Permit Required for plumbing installations and modifications. | trade | Contact office | 1-2 weeks |
| HVAC/Mechanical Permit Required for HVAC system installations or replacements. | trade | Contact office | 1-2 weeks |
| Demolition Permit Required for structure demolition within Gary. | demolition | Contact office | 2-3 weeks |
Required Documents
Residential Building Permit
- Completed building permit application
- Construction drawings
- Plot plan or survey
Commercial Building Permit
- Commercial permit application
- Stamped architectural/engineering plans
- Indiana State Design Release
Building Code
Indiana Building Code (2012 IBC and 2018 IRC with Indiana amendments)
Inspection Process
Schedule inspections 24-72 hours in advance. Contact the Building Department at 219-881-1377. $50 per inspection, $100 re-inspection fee.
Additional Notes
Building Commissioner Florzell Hawkins. Building Manager Jillyan Kelly. OpenGov permit portal at garyin.portal.opengov.com. Contractor licensing required — types include General (Limited/Unlimited), Electrical, Mechanical, Roofing, Demolition, Drywall, Fire Protection. Reciprocity program allows contractors licensed by another city/county to forgo Gary exam. Rental properties require registration ($5/unit). Grandlake Historic District in Miller Beach may require additional review.
Related Permit Guides
- Indiana Contractor License Requirements by County
- Indiana Counties with Online Permit Portals: Complete List
Need Help With Your Permit?
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Verified Data Last verified: March 23, 2026 · Source: City of Gary Building Department website