Richmond, IN Building Permits: Review Times, Process and Costs
Richmond, IN building permit timeline: Plan review takes 5 to 15 days depending on project type. Contact the building department for current processing times.
Building permit review in Richmond, IN typically takes between 5 and 15 days depending on project type and complexity. This page covers review timelines, required permits, costs, and how to speed up the process.
Richmond Plan Review Timeline
From the available information on the City of Richmond, IN Building Department webpage, here is the relevant time-related information for permit applications under the "Permits and Inspections" section:
- Time to review first submittal: Small projects typically take 5 business days to process. Larger projects may take up to 15 business days to process.
- Time to review subsequent submittals: There is no specific information provided regarding the review time for subsequent (resubmitted) plans after corrections, revisions, or additional documentation. The provided timeframes refer only to initial submittal processing.
- Other time-related details: The building department webpage outlines that online submission and tracking of permits and inspections is offered, but no additional time-specific details for resubmittals or follow-up plan checks are listed.
Therefore, only the above time details for the first submittal are available on the provided webpage. No information was found regarding subsequent submittals or other time-related specifics beyond what is listed. The available data is limited to initial processing times.
Last verified: June 2025 | Source: Richmond Building Department
Need it faster? Permit Place can expedite your Richmond permits
What Building Permits Do You Need in Richmond?
Richmond requires permits for most construction activity. The type of permit depends on your project scope.
Commercial Permits
- New commercial construction: full plan review with the longest timeline
- Tenant improvements and interior buildouts: plan review for structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical changes
- Change of use: required when converting building use (for example, retail to restaurant)
- Shell and core: separate from tenant improvement permits
Residential Permits
- New home construction: full plan review including structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing
- Additions and remodels: required when modifying structure or adding square footage
- Decks, pools, fences: separate permits with typically faster review
Trade Permits
Individual trade permits are typically required for electrical, plumbing, mechanical (HVAC), and fire sprinkler work.
How the Richmond Permit Review Process Works
Step 1: Application Submission
Submit your permit application through the Richmond building department. Applications are reviewed for completeness before being assigned to a plan reviewer.
Step 2: Plan Review
The city reviews your submitted plans for building code compliance, structural integrity, fire safety, energy code, and ADA accessibility. Commercial projects are reviewed by multiple departments at the same time.
Step 3: Corrections and Resubmittal
If the city issues correction comments, you will need to revise your plans and resubmit. Each correction cycle adds another review period. Most commercial projects go through 2 to 3 correction cycles.
Step 4: Permit Issuance
Once all review departments approve your plans, the building permit is issued. Schedule inspections as work progresses.
Note: These timelines reflect general review periods. Large or complex projects may take longer. Request a quote from Permit Place for a project-specific estimate, or get an instant due diligence report from PermitNow.io.
Richmond Building Permit Costs
Permit fees in Richmond vary based on project type and valuation.
Commercial
- Tenant improvements: $500 to $5,000+
- New commercial construction: $2,000 to $25,000+ (based on valuation)
- Plan review fee: typically 50-65% of the building permit fee
Residential
- Small projects (decks, pools, fences): $50 to $300
- Home additions and remodels: $200 to $2,000+
- New home construction: $1,000 to $10,000+ (based on valuation)
For a detailed permit cost breakdown specific to your project, get a free due diligence report from PermitNow.io.
Trade Permits
- Electrical: $50 to $500
- Plumbing: $50 to $500
- Mechanical: $50 to $500
Fee ranges are estimates. Actual fees depend on project valuation and scope. Contact the Richmond building department or Permit Place for exact costs.
Richmond Building Department
Richmond Building Department
- Website: www.richmondindiana.gov/resources/permits-and-inspections
- City Website: www.richmondindiana.gov
Frequently Asked Questions About Richmond Building Permits
How long does it take to get a building permit in Richmond?
Plan review in Richmond, IN takes 5 to 15 days for the initial review cycle. Projects that receive correction comments will need additional review cycles, each adding time to the total. Most commercial projects go through at least two review cycles before approval.
What is the difference between residential and commercial permit review in Richmond?
Commercial projects in Richmond require review by multiple departments (building, fire, public works, and sometimes health), which adds time. Residential projects typically involve fewer review disciplines and can be processed faster. Tenant improvements fall between the two depending on scope.
Can I speed up the permit process in Richmond?
The most effective way to speed up the permit process in Richmond is to submit complete, code-compliant plans on the first attempt. This reduces correction cycles, which are the primary cause of delays. Permit Place helps ensure your application is complete before submission.
Do I need a permit for a tenant improvement in Richmond?
Yes. Most interior buildouts in Richmond that involve structural changes, electrical work, plumbing, or HVAC modifications require a building permit. Simple cosmetic changes (paint, flooring, non-structural work) typically do not require a permit.
How much does a building permit cost in Richmond?
Permit fees in Richmond are calculated based on project valuation and type. Commercial projects typically pay $500 to $25,000+ in total permit and plan review fees. The exact cost depends on project scope, square footage, and any additional trade permits required.
Can a permit expediter help with my Richmond project?
Yes. Permit Place expedites building permits in Richmond and 600+ other jurisdictions. We handle everything from application preparation through plan review, corrections, and permit issuance. Our clients typically get permits faster because we submit complete applications that reduce correction cycles.
What building permits do I need in Richmond, IN?
Most construction in Richmond requires a building permit. This includes new construction, tenant improvements, change of use, additions, and major renovations. Separate trade permits for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and fire protection are also typically required. For a project-specific permit requirements report, use PermitNow.io.
Need Help With Richmond Building Permits?
Permit Place has helped hundreds of businesses get permits in Richmond and across Indiana. We handle everything from application to approval so you can focus on building.
Request a Free Quote
Free DD Report
Want to know exactly what permits your project needs? Get an instant due diligence report from PermitNow.io. View a free demo DD report