IDHS Announces New Program to Accelerate the Review and Release of Building Plans
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security Plan Review Section will implement a new program to accelerate the review and release of building plans.
Effective Dec. 2, 2024, IDHS will be immediately issuing a design release for plans without the need for a plan review for specific types of projects filed on or after this date. Qualifying plans include:
- Duplicate plans approved by IDHS or another governmental jurisdiction for another project
- Plans for structures that are not traditionally occupied or are classified as storage buildings
- Plans for open-air pavilions
- Plans for remodels, renovations or repairs of a structure that is not undergoing a change of use and is located in Indianapolis
These categories of qualifying projects were carefully selected by balancing the desire to reduce unnecessary construction delays without sacrificing public safety. This allows the Plan Review Section to focus on projects that present a higher level of public safety concern, which will enable a more thorough review of those high-risk projects in less time while letting previously approved projects, which are not traditionally occupied or are reviewed by another jurisdiction, to continue forward without unnecessary delay.
Applications for a design release still must be filed for the projects that qualify for this new program. Applicants must attach a completed copy of the request form with the application for a construction design release. If IDHS finds that the project qualifies for a release without a review, IDHS will issue a design release with the below language:
"This design release has been issued without a plan review in accordance with Ind. Code ยง 22-15-3.2-7. In accordance with 675 Ind. Admin. Code 12-6-21, this release does not relieve a responsible party from requirement with any applicable rules of the Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission even if items contrary to these rules are shown in the plans and specifications which have been released."
Projects still must comply with all applicable rules of the Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission and all local permitting and state or local inspections will be performed to ensure compliance.
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