Who Handles Your Patio or Deck Plans?
If you want to build a new deck or patio in Hendricks County, you need to know where to send your plans. Where you submit your paperwork depends on where you live.
If your home is inside a town like Avon, Plainfield, or Brownsburg, you’ll follow the town’s rules. But if you live outside town limits, your project goes through Hendricks County Planning and Building.
You can always check your address to see who is in charge. When in doubt, call the county Planning Department. They will help you figure out if your project needs to go to the county or a specific town.
How to Submit Plans for County Projects
For homes in unincorporated Hendricks County, patio and deck plans must be submitted to the Hendricks County Planning and Building Department. They review your plans and make sure the work meets county codes and zoning rules.
To submit your project, you will need:
- A completed application form
- A site plan that shows your house and where the deck or patio will go
- A list of materials and measurements
- Details on height, size, and distance from property lines
You can submit your application in person or by email. As of now, Hendricks County does not have a fully digital portal like some towns. Paper or emailed PDF files are still common for most home projects.
Visit or send materials to:
Hendricks County Planning and Building Department
355 South Washington Street, Suite 212
Danville, IN 46122
Phone: (317) 745-9255
Submitting Plans Inside Town Limits
If your home is inside a town, you’ll need to follow that town’s process. Each town has its own Planning Department, its own forms, and its own rules. Most towns in Hendricks County now offer online permitting systems.
Here’s where to apply for some of the main towns:
| Town | Submission Portal |
|---|---|
| Plainfield | Plainfield Permit Portal |
| Avon | Avon Planning & Building |
| Brownsburg | Brownsburg Permits |
Each system works a little differently. Some require you to upload all documents at once. Others may allow you to start an application and return later to finish.
In-Person vs. Digital Submission
If you live in an area with a digital system, online filing is the fastest way to submit your plans. You can upload your site plan, drawings, and other paperwork without going to an office. Many systems let you track your progress and receive messages directly from staff.
If you live in the county or a smaller town without a full online system, you may need to:
- Print your plans
- Bring them to the building department
- Pay your fees in person
Some places may allow emailed documents, but it’s always best to call and check.
What Happens After You Submit
Once you submit your deck or patio plans, staff will review your documents. They check to make sure everything follows local zoning rules, setback distances, and safety codes.
Most reviews take between 5 and 15 business days. This timeline depends on how busy the office is and how complete your paperwork is.
During review, staff may contact you if they need more details. They might ask for better drawings, missing information, or changes to your plan. Be sure to respond quickly to keep your permit moving forward.
Common Reasons Plans Get Rejected
Even small projects like patios and decks can be rejected if the paperwork isn’t right. Here are the most common reasons why plans get denied:
Missing Site Plan – Your plan must show the location of the new patio or deck, including distances from property lines. If this is missing, the plan can’t be reviewed.
Wrong Setbacks – If your project is too close to the edge of your lot, it will not be approved. You may need to shrink the structure or request a variance.
Incomplete Application – Leaving out fields on the form or forgetting to list materials can slow things down or lead to denial.
Building Over an Easement or Utility Line – If your plan places the structure over a sewer, drain, or utility easement, it will be rejected.
Floodplain Conflicts – If part of your property is in a flood zone, special permits and extra steps may be required. Projects without these may be denied.
HOA Restrictions – In town, your Homeowners Association may have separate rules. Your project could be blocked if HOA approval isn’t shown.
Tips for a Smoother Process
To avoid delays, make sure your paperwork is neat and complete. Include all needed measurements and label each part of your site plan. If you’re not sure about something, call the Planning Department before you submit.
If you’re working with deck builders near Plainfield IN, ask if they handle the permits. Some will take care of everything, while others may ask you to file the permit yourself.
It’s also smart to plan ahead. Reviews and inspections can take longer during spring and summer. Applying early gives you more time to fix problems, if needed.
Final Thoughts on Submitting Your Plans
Building a new deck or patio in Hendricks County is a great way to improve your home. But before you start digging or pouring concrete, make sure your plans are submitted to the right office.
Know whether your property is in the county or a nearby town. Follow the correct submission steps, either online or in person. Check your documents carefully and include all the needed details.
A clear, complete plan helps you get faster approval and avoid problems later. With the right steps, your outdoor space can be built safely, legally, and ready for you to enjoy.