Codes, exemptions & field inspections
This guide translates the available agency record into a preconstruction checklist for structural scope, minor work, and inspection release. The adopted code and the issuing official control when a field condition is disputed.
Regulatory framework
2020 Indiana Residential Code, based on the 2018 International Residential Code with Indiana amendments, for permits issued after December 26, 2019; applicable Indiana building codes for commercial work; and Clark County's Unified Development Ordinance, amended February 26, 2026, for zoning and development standards.
Inspection lane
All commercial and residential inspections require 24-hour notification. Schedule by calling 812-285-6287 or emailing the Executive Director at ewise@clarkcounty.in.gov. Planning and Zoning staff may inspect land and issue permits.
Minor-work playbook
The public page does not publish a complete minor-work exemption list. Residential improvement and contractor-trade applications are accepted online; floodplain and development approvals may add requirements. The county's jurisdiction covers unincorporated Clark County and the Town of Borden, while municipalities may have their own permitting offices.
Field rule
A permit exemption generally addresses one narrow construction trigger. It does not automatically waive zoning, land-use, floodplain, shoreline, fire, energy, electrical, utility, septic, or right-of-way requirements. Obtain written confirmation when the project involves a new structure, structural alteration, change in occupancy, or concealed work.
Inspection pipeline
Request with lead time
All commercial and residential inspections require 24-hour notification. Schedule by calling 812-285-6287 or emailing the Executive Director at ewise@clarkcounty.in.gov. Planning and Zoning staff may inspect land and issue permits.
Preserve access
Do not cover framing, reinforcement, wiring, piping, damp-proofing, or life-safety work until the required inspection has been completed and documented.
Close the record
Retain the approved plans, inspection approvals, correction responses, and final certificate or occupancy release with the property file.
Contractor verification
Use the state licensing system to verify active registration, trade credentials, bond status, and liability coverage where available. Match the legal business name to the proposal and permit application.
Planning reference
A building permit is only one part of statutory compliance. Check the local zoning, ordinance, map, or land-use reference before finalizing setbacks, height, lot coverage, access, drainage, or accessory structure placement.
Open planning reference ↗Source trail
Use these direct agency or licensing links to confirm current instructions before you file, pay, or schedule work. External pages control if their information differs from this directory.
Project questions
Clark County Planning & Zoning Office is the identified county-level authority for this profile. Confirm that the property is in its service area before filing.
Begin with the online permit gateway listed in the application guide. If the portal does not recognize the address or project type, contact 812-285-6287.
A typical review timeline was not verified. Ask the agency for its current completeness and review estimate.
All commercial and residential inspections require 24-hour notification. Schedule by calling 812-285-6287 or emailing the Executive Director at ewise@clarkcounty.in.gov. Planning and Zoning staff may inspect land and issue permits.
2020 Indiana Residential Code, based on the 2018 International Residential Code with Indiana amendments, for permits issued after December 26, 2019; applicable Indiana building codes for commercial work; and Clark County's Unified Development Ordinance, amended February 26, 2026, for zoning and development standards. The public page does not publish a complete minor-work exemption list. Residential improvement and contractor-trade applications are accepted online; floodplain and development approvals may add requirements. The county's jurisdiction covers unincorporated Clark County and the Town of Borden, while municipalities may have their own permitting offices.
Field sequencing matters
Code compliance is not only a plan-review exercise. Footings, reinforcement, framing, fireblocking, wiring, piping, insulation, weather protection, and life-safety systems each have points where the work must remain accessible. Build the inspection calendar into the trade schedule instead of treating it as a final administrative step.
When a project qualifies for a narrow minor-work exemption, keep a written explanation of why it qualifies and confirm that related zoning, utility, fire, energy, or environmental rules do not create a separate approval requirement.
Closeout file
Keep the approved plan set, inspection approvals, correction responses, contractor license verification, final certificate, and any occupancy release together. A clean record protects the owner, builder, lender, insurer, and future buyer.