Bolthole Index

Montgomery County, Indiana

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Montgomery County, Indiana

60Index Score / 100
#37 of 92 in Indiana

Unincorporated Montgomery County, Indiana requires building permits for regulated construction, with limited exemptions for small or nonstructural projects1. The county Building/Zoning Department issues building permits and administers zoning for most of the county, but not for Crawfordsville and its two-mile jurisdiction, where the city has its own process and zoning ordinance23. Septic permits for every address without sewer, city or not, come from the Montgomery County Health Department and must be issued before the building permit4.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for regulated work, with limited exemptions; county fee for a house is $150 plus $0.10 per square foot15
Permit office
County Building/Zoning Department for most areas; Crawfordsville runs its own process26
Zoning
County Building/Zoning administers the 2025 county zoning ordinance outside Crawfordsville and its two-mile jurisdiction; Crawfordsville has its own zoning ordinance73
Septic permit
Montgomery County Health Department; soil test and site assessment come before permit release89
RV or tiny home
County occupancy rules could not be confirmed; ask Building/Zoning before buying or moving one onsite2
Owner-builder
No county exemption was confirmed; ask Building/Zoning before relying on one10
Private well
Local residential permit unconfirmed; high-capacity wells may trigger state registration1112

Who to call

Building permits

Montgomery County Building/Zoning Department

Building construction, demolition and electrical permits; zoning, subdivision, flood-control and Sugar Creek ordinances; new addresses

765-364-6490

1580 Constitution Row Suite E, Crawfordsville, IN 47933

Septic permits

Montgomery County Health Department

Onsite sewage-system permits and review in Montgomery County

(765) 364-6440

health.reception@montgomerycounty.in.gov

1580 Constitution Row, Suite G, Crawfordsville, IN 47933

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Montgomery County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Do you need a building permit in Montgomery County, Indiana?

Yes. Unincorporated Montgomery County requires building permits for construction, alteration, repair, location and use of buildings and structures covered by its ordinance1. Listed exemptions include portable buildings without electricity, nonstructural roofing, siding or window work, redecorating, portable agricultural buildings without electricity, and non-electrical projects valued under $2,00013. For a one- or two-family dwelling the county schedule lists a $150.00 base rate plus $0.10 per square foot of living space, and a building permit is capped at $30,000.005. Building permits are valid for one year; reissuing one after that costs $205. Inside Crawfordsville, the city runs a separate building permit process for new homes, additions, remodels, pools, sheds, porches, decks and fences6. A home on a lot without sewer also needs a septic permit first, because the Health Department will not release a building permit without one14. Indiana's residential code applies statewide to Class 2 structures and their accessory structures15.

Who issues building permits in Montgomery County, and how do you reach them?

The Montgomery County Building/Zoning Department issues building permits for construction, demolitions and electrical inspections across most of the county2. The office is at 1580 Constitution Row, Suite E, Crawfordsville, IN 47933, and its phone is 765-364-64902. The department also issues new addresses and reviews rezoning applications for the Plan Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals2. Its building permits do not cover Crawfordsville or the city's two-mile jurisdiction, so establish jurisdiction before applying2. In Crawfordsville, applicants submit an application, construction plans, a site plan and a subcontractor list, then schedule required inspections directly with the City Building Inspector616. Septic permits stay with the county Health Department wherever the address, and the county office's fee schedule also lists stormwater, floodplain, electrical and demolition charges85.

Does Montgomery County, Indiana have zoning?

Yes. Outside Crawfordsville and its two-mile jurisdiction, the Montgomery County Building/Zoning Department administers county zoning, including rezoning and variance applications for the Plan Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals72. The county publishes a 2025 zoning ordinance and a permitted use table on its Building/Zoning page17. Inside Crawfordsville, the city's Unified Development Ordinance, effective July 1, 2026, is enforced by the city's Zoning Administrator, and the city issues its own zoning permits3. Subdivision of land outside Crawfordsville is also regulated through the county department18. We could not confirm a county rule for minimum dwelling size, setbacks, lot coverage, building height or minimum lot size, because those depend on the zoning district. Give the county or city office the parcel address and ask for the zoning district, permitted uses and dimensional standards before designing a home or outbuilding2.

How do septic permits work in Montgomery County?

The Montgomery County Health Department permits and reviews onsite sewage systems, including new systems, repairs, replacements and qualifying reconnections8. The process requires a soil test, county site assessment, house site plan and floor plan before permit release; installation must use a county-certified installer9. Residential new, replacement or repair permits cost $200 and remain valid for one year9. Contact the Health Department at 1580 Constitution Row, Suite G, Crawfordsville, IN 47933, (765) 364-6440, or health.reception@montgomerycounty.in.gov19. Only about 1.9% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so settle feasibility before fixing the house location20. Keep vehicles, sheds and driveways out of the infiltration area21.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Montgomery County?

We could not confirm Montgomery County's rule for long-term RV occupancy, temporary camping or a tiny home used as a dwelling. Indiana's cited RV provisions govern regulated campgrounds and do not answer whether someone may live in an RV on an individually owned parcel22. Manufactured homes are recognized as dwellings in Indiana, but county and municipal authorities retain zoning and building-code jurisdiction23. Before buying land or moving a unit, give the Montgomery County Building/Zoning Department the parcel number and ask about the zoning district, allowed residential use, foundation and utility requirements, setbacks, minimum dwelling size and time limits2. Also ask the Health Department how the proposed dwelling will satisfy wastewater requirements, because a dwelling without sanitary sewer must use an onsite sewage system24.

How do you build a home in Montgomery County, Indiana?

  1. Confirm whether the parcel falls under Montgomery County or within Crawfordsville and its two-mile jurisdiction2.
  2. Ask the appropriate zoning office for the district, allowed use, setbacks and required location approval225.
  3. If sanitary sewer is unavailable, complete the soil test and Health Department site assessment, then obtain the septic permit before the building permit9.
  4. Apply for the building permit; Crawfordsville applications require construction plans, a site plan and a subcontractor list6.
  5. Confirm inspections with the issuing office; local government handles inspections for one- and two-family dwellings, and Crawfordsville applicants schedule directly with the City Building Inspector2616.
  6. Complete final approvals; Crawfordsville prohibits use or occupancy until final inspection and issuance of a certificate of occupancy27.

What should you check before buying land in Montgomery County?

Confirm jurisdiction and zoning first because the county office excludes Crawfordsville and its two-mile jurisdiction2. Test the septic path early because only about 1.9% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field20. Check flood mapping and grading with Building/Zoning; development in a state-regulated floodway needs Indiana DNR approval before work begins, and the county fee schedule lists a $100 floodplain permit285. Verify road ownership because an entrance on a state highway needs INDOT permission29. Ask the Health Department whether Montgomery County requires a residential well permit11. High-capacity wells generally need no state permit outside Indiana's Great Lakes Basin, but a facility capable of at least 100,000 gallons per day must be registered with DNR within three months after completion12.

Watch-outs

  • The county Building/Zoning Department does not cover Crawfordsville or its two-mile jurisdiction, so establish jurisdiction before applying2.
  • Montgomery County's permit exemptions are narrow, and a county building permit for a house costs $150 plus $0.10 per square foot of living space; ask Building/Zoning about electrical work and anything outside the listed exemptions135.
  • Only about 1.9% of Montgomery County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so settle septic feasibility before fixing the house site20.
  • Crawfordsville requires a final inspection and certificate of occupancy before a permitted project may be occupied or used27.
  • Long-term RV living, tiny-home occupancy and an owner-builder exemption could not be confirmed; ask the applicable zoning office before relying on any of them210.
  • Crawfordsville's Unified Development Ordinance took effect July 1, 2026, so older city zoning information may be out of date3.

Sources

  1. Ordinance No. 2009-6: Ordinance Amending Building Permit Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  2. Montgomery County Building/Zoning Department (montgomerycounty.in.gov)
  3. Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), quoted and re-checked
  4. Proper Steps for Septic Installation Permits, quoted and re-checked
  5. Building / Zoning Department | Montgomery County, IN, quoted and re-checked
  6. Applications, Forms & Fees, quoted and re-checked
  7. Building / Zoning Department, quoted and re-checked
  8. Proper Steps for Septic Installation Permits, quoted and re-checked
  9. Proper Steps for Septic Installation Permits, quoted and re-checked
  10. (2026 county census)
  11. Recommended Standards For Private Water Wells (Indiana statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. Water Availability Use/Rights Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  13. Ordinance No. 2009-6: Ordinance Amending Building Permit Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  14. Proper Steps for Septic Installation Permits, quoted and re-checked
  15. Rules of the Indiana Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission, quoted and re-checked
  16. Applications, Forms & Fees, quoted and re-checked
  17. Building / Zoning Department, quoted and re-checked
  18. Building / Zoning Department, quoted and re-checked
  19. Montgomery County Health Department (in.gov)
  20. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  21. Montgomery County: Septic Systems, quoted and re-checked
  22. Environmental Public Health: 410 IAC 6-71 Campgrounds (Indiana statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  23. Environmental Public Health: IC 16-41-27 Health Sanitation and Safety: Mobile homes and manufactured homes, quoted and re-checked
  24. in.gov, quoted and re-checked
  25. Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), quoted and re-checked
  26. Code Enforcement FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  27. Applications, Forms & Fees, quoted and re-checked
  28. Water: Regulatory Programs, quoted and re-checked
  29. INDOT Driveway Permit Guide 2024 (Indiana statewide rule), quoted and re-checked

Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Montgomery County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleMontgomery CountyFountain CountyPutnam CountyBoone CountyTippecanoe CountyParke CountyClinton County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Dept. of HealthCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Montgomery County in Indiana

60
County map
Montgomery County highlighted among the Indiana counties · colored by Index score

How Montgomery County scores

Seclusion28100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency60100% ev.
Admin Boringness4768% ev.
Durability80100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost73100% ev.

Evidence strength: 95%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$229kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$8,819Land / acre
42.7"Annual rain
1.9% of yrsSevere drought
3.8 / yr (+3.6)Mid-century 100°F days
13.2 daysMid-century dry spell
1.8" (+7.6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.85×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,526Home insurance / yr
1% / yrInsurance growth
0.7%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
47,817People within 30 min
4,323,418People within 2 hr
46,593Radius comparison (15 mi)
76.4People / sq mi
0%Federal land
96.3%Land at 15% slope or less
1.9%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
6,174 acWorkable land screen
13%Wooded land
75.4 tonsBiomass / forest ac
51.4°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Montgomery County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet researched: Town of Alamo · Brown Township · Clark Township · Coal Creek Township · Franklin Township · Town of Ladoga · Town of Linden · Madison Township · Town of New Market · Town of New Richmond · Town of New Ross · Ripley Township · Scott Township · Sugar Creek Township · Union Township · Walnut Township · Town of Waveland · Wayne Township · Town of Waynetown · Town of Wingate

Answers from the rulebook for Montgomery County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Montgomery County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, alteration, repair, location, and use of buildings and structures regulated under Montgomery County building ordinances.

    • The county ordinance lists exemptions for portable buildings without electricity; roofing projects with no structural changes; siding and window replacement projects with no structural changes; redecorating projects; portable agricultural buildings with no electricity; and non-electrical building projects under $2,000 in value.
    • The ordinance states that the building permit is valid for one year and requires a $20 re-issue fee after one year.
    • Incorporated municipalities may administer their own building requirements.

    permit validity: 1 year · permit re-issue fee after one year: 20 USD

    “Building Permit Exemptions The following projects are exempt from building permits: 1) Portable buildings without electricity 2) Roofing projects with no structural changes 3) Siding and window replacement projects with no structural changes 4) Redecorating projects 5) Portable agricultural buildings with no electricity 6) Any non-electrical building project under $2,000.00 in value”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — New dwellings in Montgomery County that are not connected to a public or municipal sanitary sewer and therefore require an onsite sewage system.
      “Any dwelling that is not connected to a public or municipal sanitary sewer is required to have an onsite sewage system as a method of waste disposal and wastewater treatment. [...] An onsite sewage system permit is required before a building permit will be issued.”
    • Limited — Building permits for construction, alteration, repair, location, and use of buildings and structures regulated under the Montgomery County building permit ordinance.
      “Building Permit Exemptions The following projects are exempt from building permits: 1) Portable buildings without electricity 2) Roofing projects with no structural changes 3) Siding and window replacement projects with no structural changes 4) Redecorating projects 5) Portable agricultural buildings with no electricity 6) Any non-electrical building project under $2,000.00 in value”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Electrical system upgrades in the portion of Montgomery County administered by the Montgomery County Building and Zoning Department, outside the City of Crawfordsville and the two-mile jurisdiction.

    • An electrical inspection is required for an electrical system upgrade.
    • The inspection must be scheduled before the utility company pulls the meter.
    • The department asks for 24 hours' notice for inspection scheduling.
    • The inspection is performed after the power is off and the rewire is complete to the meter.
    • The Montgomery County Building and Zoning Department notifies the utility company of the hookup, and the homeowner must inform the utility of the status before hookup.
    • The department states that it is responsible for most of Montgomery County excluding the City of Crawfordsville and the two-mile jurisdiction.

    inspection scheduling notice: 24 hours

    “For an electrical system upgrade, an electrical inspection is required. Call to schedule the inspection prior to the Utility company pulling the meter. We ask for 24 hours' notice for inspection scheduling purposes. Once the power is off and the rewire is complete to the meter, the inspection is performed by our inspectors. MCBA will then notify the Utility company of the hookup. The Homeowner will also need to inform the utility of the status before hookup.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County zoning regulation in Montgomery County outside the City of Crawfordsville and its two-mile jurisdiction, including unincorporated areas administered through the Montgomery County Building/Zoning Department and Plan Commission.

    • The county department states that it is responsible for most of Montgomery County excluding the City of Crawfordsville and the two-mile jurisdiction.
    • Development remains subject to applicable county zoning, building, subdivision, flood-control, and Sugar Creek ordinances and required permits.
    • The county page identifies a current 2025 Montgomery County Zoning Ordinance Updated document and county Plan Commission/Board of Zoning Appeals review.
    “We are responsible for most of Montgomery County excluding the City of Crawfordsville and the two- mile jurisdiction. [...] We are responsible for reviewing rezoning”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Countywide aggregate of zoning authority across Montgomery County, including county-administered areas and the City of Crawfordsville.

    • The county states that its Building/Zoning Department is responsible for most of Montgomery County, excluding the City of Crawfordsville and the two-mile jurisdiction.
    • Crawfordsville separately administers its own Unified Development Ordinance through a city Zoning Administrator.
    • The Crawfordsville UDO page states an effective date of July 1, 2026.
    • This aggregate claim does not determine the zoning authority for every other incorporated municipality or the excluded two-mile jurisdiction.
    “The Administrator is authorized and directed to enforce and implement the provisions of the Unified Development Ordinance of the City of Crawfordsville (UDO)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate zoning across Montgomery County: county zoning applies in the county-administered area, while Crawfordsville administers a separate municipal UDO; the county department states it excludes Crawfordsville and the two-mile jurisdiction.
      “Effective July 1, 2026, this Unified Development Ordinance of the City of Crawfordsville is intended to guide the growth and development of the community”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    County zoning districts and zoning controls published for the unincorporated area administered under the Montgomery County Zoning Ordinance.

    • The county Building/Zoning Department is responsible for most of Montgomery County excluding the City of Crawfordsville and the two-mile jurisdiction.
    • The official department page publishes a current item titled 2025 Montgomery County Zoning Ordinance Updated and also links a Permitted Use Table.
    • Municipal zoning rules may apply within incorporated municipalities.
    “2025 Montgomery County Zoning Ordinance Updated (PDF)”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    Onsite sewage-system permitting and review in Montgomery County, including new construction, repairs, replacements, and reconnection waivers.

    • The Montgomery County Health Department conducts the site assessment and determines system size and type under Indiana Rule 410 IAC 6-8.3.
    • A waiver from the Health Department is required to reconnect a new dwelling to an existing onsite system if the system meets current Indiana and local code requirements.
    “Montgomery County Health Department [...] THIS SECTION TO BE COMPLETED BY THE HEALTH DEPARTMENT”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County — Residential onsite sewage permitting and approval in Montgomery County, Indiana.
      “The installer or owner must submit their proposal to the Montgomery County Health Department for approval.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Residential onsite sewage systems for dwellings in Montgomery County that are not connected to a public or municipal sanitary sewer, including new construction, repairs, replacement of major components, and reconnection of a new dwelling to an existing system.

    • A dwelling not connected to a public or municipal sanitary sewer must have an onsite sewage system.
    • A soil test by a Registered Soil Scientist is required.
    • An Environmental Health Specialist makes a site assessment after or during the soil test.
    • A house site plan and floor plan must be furnished before the permit is released.
    • The permit fee for a new or repaired residential system is $200.00; commercial permits are $300.00.
    • Permits are valid for one year from the date of issue.
    • An onsite sewage system permit is required before a building permit will be issued.
    • A permit is also required to repair a failing system or replace any major component.
    • A Health Department waiver is required to reconnect a new dwelling to an existing onsite system, and the existing system must meet current Indiana state and local code.
    • The permit must be on-site during installation, the contractor must be certified and registered with the Montgomery County Health Department, and a final as-installed drawing is required.
    • Gray-water discharge outside the onsite sewage system is treated as a direct discharge and violates 410 IAC 6-8.3.

    residential permit fee: 200 USD (new, replacement, or repair permit) · commercial permit fee: 300 USD (commercial construction or repair) · permit validity: 1 year (from date of issue)

    “A permit is also required to repair a failing onsite system”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New onsite sewage systems, failing-system repairs, major-component replacements, and dwellings not connected to a public or municipal sanitary sewer.
      “An onsite sewage system permit is required”
  • Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)

    Private onsite sanitation for a dwelling in Montgomery County that is not connected to a public or municipal sanitary sewer.

    • An onsite sewage system is required when the dwelling is not connected to a public or municipal sanitary sewer.
    • A county onsite sewage permit is required before the building permit is issued.
    • The system must meet Indiana Rule 410 IAC 6-8.3 and Montgomery County requirements, including soil testing, site assessment, approved design, certified and registered installation, and final as-installed documentation.
    • If a sanitary sewer is available within a reasonable distance, the state rule prohibits onsite sewage installation and requires connection to the sewer.
    “A dwelling that is not connected, or cannot be connected, to a sanitary sewerage system shall be provided with a residential on-site sewage system”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Wastewater disposal for dwellings not connected to a public or municipal sanitary sewer in Montgomery County.
      “is required to have an onsite sewage system as a method of waste disposal and wastewater treatment.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and related land-use applications handled by Montgomery County outside the City of Crawfordsville and its two-mile jurisdiction.

    • The county states that its Building and Zoning Department handles Subdivision ordinances and reviews applications for the Plan Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals.
    • The cited page does not specify conceptual-approval requirements, final-plat approval requirements, fees, acreage thresholds, or incorporated-area exceptions beyond excluding the City of Crawfordsville and the two-mile jurisdiction.
    “We are responsible for most of Montgomery County excluding the City of Crawfordsville and the two- mile jurisdiction. The Building Department also issues new 911 addresses and maintains the address database for the unincorporated and incorporated areas of the County. We handle land use information; Building, Subdivision, Flood control and Sugar Creek ordinances.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Driveways over or within a septic system infiltration area in Montgomery County, Indiana.

    • Vehicles should not be driven or parked over the infiltration area.
    • A shed or driveway should not be built in the infiltration area.
    • The restriction is stated in the Montgomery County septic-system guidance and concerns protection of the drain field.
    “Avoid compaction of the soil over the infiltration area. DO NOT DRIVE OR PARK vehicles over the area and don't build a shed or driveway in this area.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Building permit fees administered by the Montgomery County Building and Zoning Department in the portion of Montgomery County under that department's responsibility.

    • The department states that its responsibility excludes the City of Crawfordsville and the two-mile jurisdiction.
    • For permits other than WECS Towers or Substations, the schedule lists: 1&2 Family Dwelling, $150.00 base rate plus $0.10 per square foot of living space; Multiple Unit (3 or more), $200.00 base rate plus $0.10 per square foot of living space, plus $100.00 for each additional unit; Commercial, $300.00 base rate plus $0.10 per square foot, including commercial pole buildings; Commercial Addition or Remodel, $200.00 base rate plus $0.10 per square foot; Manufactured Housing, $100.00 base rate; residential Additions, $100.00 base rate plus $0.05 per square foot of living space; Garages, $100.00 base rate plus $0.05 per square foot; Pole Buildings, $100.00 base rate plus $0.05 per square foot; Remodel with structural changes, $50.00 base rate plus $0.05 per square foot.
    • Additional listed charges are: Stormwater Inspection $40.00; Stormwater Review $80.00 per hour; Floodplain Permit $100.00; Floodplain Inspection $40.00; Electrical Inspection $50.00; Demolition Permit $30.00; Additional Inspections $30.00.
    • The maximum fee for any building permit is $30,000.00, except that this limit does not apply to WECS Towers or Substations.
    • WECS Tower fees are $1,750.00 per megawatt of generating capacity; Substation fees are $300.00.
    • A building permit is valid for one year, and a $20.00 re-issue fee is required after one year from the issue date.
    • The ordinance lists building-permit exemptions for portable buildings without electricity; roofing projects with no structural changes; siding and window replacement projects with no structural changes; redecorating projects; portable agricultural buildings with no electricity; and non-electrical building projects under $2,000.00 in value.

    1&2 family dwelling base fee: 150 USD (plus $0.10 per square foot of living space) · multiple unit base fee: 200 USD (plus $0.10 per square foot of living space and $100.00 for each additional unit) · commercial base fee: 300 USD (plus $0.10 per square foot; includes commercial pole buildings) · maximum building permit fee: 30000 USD (does not apply to WECS Towers or Substations) · WECS Tower fee: 1750 USD per megawatt · Substation fee: 300 USD · permit re-issue fee after one year: 20 USD (building permit valid for one year)

    “The fee for all permits (other than WECS Towers or Substations) shall be as follows: [...] Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (A) above, the maximum fee for any building permit shall be $30,000.00. This limit shall not apply to permits for WECS Towers or Substations under paragraph (C) below.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Published county zoning and building permit fee schedules for the area administered by the Montgomery County Building/Zoning Department.
      “Article 12 - Zoning Fee Schedule (PDF) [...] Ordinance Amending Building Permit Fee Schedule (PDF)”
  • Permit processPartial

    Montgomery County Health Department onsite sewage system permits for residential and commercial new construction, repairs, replacements, and reconnections where applicable.

    • Any dwelling not connected to a public or municipal sanitary sewer must have an onsite sewage system.
    • For new construction, obtain an application from the Health Department; the application may be completed by the owner, contractor, or authorized agent.
    • The application requires the applicant's name, current address, phone number, site location, number of bedrooms, type of construction, and information about pools, hot tubs, and other buildings that may affect daily water usage.
    • A soil test is required, and the owner or agent must contract with a Registered Soil Scientist.
    • An Environmental Health Specialist conducts a site assessment; the site should be cleared of growth that would interfere with assessing topography, and no excavation or stump removal should be done before assessment.
    • After the soil report is received, the system size and type are determined under Indiana Rule 410 IAC 6-8.3. A perimeter drain is required for a seasonal high water table if a legal outlet can be obtained.
    • For new construction, a house site plan and floor plan must be furnished before the permit is released.
    • The installer or owner must submit the proposed system design to the Montgomery County Health Department for approval.
    • Residential and commercial septic permits cost $200 and $300 respectively; permits are valid for one year from issuance.
    • An onsite sewage system permit is required before a building permit will be issued.
    • A permit is also required to repair a failing onsite system or replace any major component.
    • A waiver from the Health Department is required to reconnect a new dwelling to an existing onsite system, provided the system meets current Indiana state and local code requirements.
    • The application packet requires a 50-foot separation between a well and any septic-system component for residential installations, or 100 feet for commercial installations; a certified and registered county septic contractor; the permit onsite during installation; and a final as-installed drawing with no exceptions.
    • The published materials document the septic-permit process but do not establish a complete process for every Montgomery County permit or application category.

    residential septic permit fee: 200 USD (new, replacement, or repair permit) · commercial septic permit fee: 300 USD (new, replacement, or repair permit) · septic permit validity: 1 year from date of issue · well-to-septic separation: >= 50 feet (residential installation) · well-to-septic separation: >= 100 feet (commercial installation)

    “An onsite sewage system permit is required before a building permit will be issued.”

Indiana rules that apply here

  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Statewide Indiana construction subject to the Indiana Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission's adopted building codes, including the Indiana Building Code and Indiana Residential Code.

    • The adopted codes consist of model codes amended for Indiana.
    • The 2014 Indiana Building Code under 675 IAC 13-2.6 is currently in effect and became effective December 1, 2014.
    • The 2020 Indiana Residential Code under 675 IAC 14-4.4 is currently in effect and became effective December 26, 2019.
    • Specific applicability depends on the structure and code category.

    Indiana Building Code effective date: 2014-12-01 · Indiana Residential Code effective date: 2019-12-26

    “The Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission creates Indiana codes by adopting model codes and amending them to apply in Indiana.”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Indiana building codes applicable statewide, including construction in Montgomery County, subject to the applicable code provisions and amendments.
      “The Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission creates Indiana codes by adopting model codes and amending them to apply in Indiana.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Construction on Class 2 structures and their accessory structures in Montgomery County, under Indiana's statewide building-code system.
      “Since that date, the 2020 Indiana Residential Code has been in full force and effect in every location within the state of Indiana. There are no jurisdictions or locations in the state in which the code is not in effect. Further, all local units of government are statutorily mandated to require compliance with the code, just as they are with all rules of the Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission. See IC 36-7-2-9.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Construction on Class 2 structures and their accessory structures in Montgomery County, including one- and two-family residential construction.
      “The 2020 Indiana Residential Code (675 IAC 14-4.4) went into effect on December 26, 2019. [...] in every location within the state of Indiana.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Class 2 construction and accessory structures in Montgomery County under Indiana's statewide building-code framework; the Indiana Building Code also applies to covered nonresidential construction.
      “Since that date, the 2020 Indiana Residential Code has been in full force and effect in every location within the state of Indiana. There are no jurisdictions or locations in the state in which the code is not in effect.”
    • Adopted — Indiana's state-adopted building and fire-safety codes, including compliance requirements applicable through local units of government.
      “Each unit shall require compliance with the code of building laws and fire safety laws that is adopted in the rules of the fire prevention [...]”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Occupancy of manufactured homes as dwelling units in Indiana, including Montgomery County, subject to applicable local zoning and building ordinances and state health, sanitation, and safety requirements.

    • The Indiana Department of Health states that mobile homes and manufactured homes are suitable and necessary dwelling units in Indiana.
    • County and municipal authorities retain jurisdiction regarding zoning and building codes and ordinances pertaining to mobile home communities.
    • State health, sanitation, and safety standards apply; mobile home communities require state licensing and additional water, sewage, construction, and inspection requirements.
    “This chapter recognizes mobile homes and manufactured homes as suitable and necessary dwelling units in Indiana. [...] County and municipal authorities within their respective jurisdictions have jurisdiction regarding zoning and building codes and ordinances pertaining to mobile home communities.”
  • Well permitLimited

    High-capacity water wells under Indiana state rules.

    • Generally no state-agency permit is required for a high-capacity water well unless it is located within the Great Lakes Basin of Indiana.
    • A significant water withdrawal facility capable of supplying at least 100,000 gallons per day must be registered with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources within three months after completion.
    • This claim does not establish whether Montgomery County requires a local residential well permit.

    significant water withdrawal threshold: >= 100000 gallons per day (registration may be required) · SWWF registration deadline: 3 months after completion

    “Generally, no permit is required for a high-capacity water well (unless located within the Great Lakes Basin of Indiana)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Construction of residential water-supply wells and installation of well pumps in Indiana.
      “Several local health departments now require that a permit be obtained before construction of a residential water supply well or installation of a well pump.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)

    Residential dwellings and residential outbuildings governed by Indiana's residential on-site sewage systems rule when the existing residential on-site sewage system has failed.

    • A local health officer may require the direct sanitary-sewer connection; the rule does not make the connection automatic.
    • The sanitary sewer must be available within three hundred (300) feet of the affected property line.
    • The sanitary sewer must be available for connection at a construction cost and connection fee estimated not to exceed one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the estimated cost of installing an on-site sewage system serving the residence or residential outbuilding.
    • The rule is administered by local boards of health through their health officer and authorized representatives.
    • The cited rule identifies filing and readoption dates, but does not state an effective date in the cited passage.

    maximum sewer distance: <= 300 feet (Available from the affected property line.) · maximum connection cost and connection fee: <= 150 percent of estimated on-site sewage system installation cost (Applies when the residential on-site sewage system has failed.)

    “(b) In the event of a residential on-site sewage system failure the local health officer may require the residence and/or the residential outbuilding to make a direct connection to a sanitary sewer, if the sanitary sewer is available within three hundred (300) feet of the affected property line and is available for connection at a construction cost and connection fee estimated not to exceed one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the cost estimated for installing an on-site sewage system to serve the residence or residential outbuilding.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Sewer (with conditions) — A proposed facility in Montgomery County where a sanitary sewer is available within a reasonable distance.
      “installation of an onsite sewage disposal system is prohibited, and a connection must be made to the sewer.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Indiana agricultural buildings or structures evaluated for the Class 1 structure agricultural-purpose exemption.

    • The structure must be used for an agricultural purpose, generally related to cultivation of soil, production of crops, or raising livestock.
    • The structure may not be used for another purpose such as a restaurant or event center.
    • The structure must be located on the land where the agricultural operation is located; this is the “farm rule.”
    • The structure may not be used for retail trade.
    • A stand used for retail sales of farm produce must not operate for more than 8 consecutive months in a calendar year.
    • If any stated condition fails, the agricultural exemption does not apply.

    maximum consecutive months for farm-produce retail stand: <= 8 months (Retail trade in a structure that is not a stand disqualifies the exemption regardless of duration.)

    “If no, the agricultural exemption applies, and the building or structure is not a Class 1 structure”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Buildings used only for an agricultural purpose on the land where they are located and not used for retail trade, for purposes of Indiana state Class 1 construction-design-release requirements.
      “Buildings used only for an agricultural purpose on the land where they are located and not used for retail trade are not Class 1 structures.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development activities within the floodway of any State waterway in Montgomery County, including structures, obstructions, deposits, excavations, buildings, fills, and residential construction.

    • Indiana DNR approval is required before the beginning of the project.
    • The state regulatory authority is limited to the floodway produced by the regulatory flood.
    • A project in the floodway may not erect a permanent structure for use as an abode or place of residence.
    • Certain activities may be exempt under rule, but an exemption does not circumvent other state, federal, or local permitting requirements.
    • Floodplain fringe areas have no state review or state permit, but approved local floodplain regulations and NFIP requirements may still apply.
    “regulates various development activities [...] within the floodway of any State waterway by requiring DNR approval prior to the beginning of the project.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Most development activities in Indiana floodways, including fills, excavations, bridges, utilities, and non-residential structures.
      “The DNR Division of Water has jurisdiction in Indiana's floodways for most development activities.”
    • Limited — Development activities within the fringe portion of Indiana floodplains.
      “There is no State review of or permit issued for development activities within the fringe portion of the floodplain.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Occupancy of manufactured homes as principal residences in Indiana mobile home communities and related state health-regulated settings.

    • The state statute recognizes mobile homes and manufactured homes as suitable and necessary dwelling units in Indiana.
    • A mobile home community is generally land with at least five mobile homes or manufactured homes occupied as principal residences, subject to the statutory definition and included parcel configurations.
    • County and municipal authorities retain jurisdiction regarding zoning and building codes and ordinances pertaining to mobile home communities.
    • A mobile home community may not be operated without a license from the state department.
    • Occupied homes in a mobile home community must be connected to the community sewerage system at all times.
    • Each residential shelter in a mobile home community must have toilet, sink, and bath or shower facilities and be connected to water supply and sewer service before occupancy.
    • Mobile home community sites must meet and receive approval under local zoning requirements before construction begins.

    mobile homes or manufactured homes for statutory mobile home community definition: >= 5 homes (The statute also includes certain parcels with fewer units when specified shared-road, water, or sewer/septic conditions apply.) · mobile home community license duration: 4 years (The license expires at midnight on December 31.) · public water system distance threshold: > 2000 feet (A mobile home community is not required to use a public water system if the system is more than 2,000 feet away.)

    “Every shelter occupied as a residence in a mobile home community, whether mobile or permanent, shall be: 1. equipped with toilet, sink, and bath or shower facilities; and 2. Connected to the water supply and sewer service; before occupancy.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Recreational vehicle occupancy at a regulated Indiana campground campsite, rather than residential occupancy on an individually deeded lot or other land outside the rule's campground definition.
      “No more than one (1) recreational vehicle or one (1) vacation mobile home”
    • Limited — Temporary campgrounds operated in Indiana.
      “not more than ten (10) consecutive days per event”
    • Limited — Occupancy of manufactured homes in Indiana, especially occupancy in mobile home communities subject to state health and sanitation standards and local zoning and building-code authority.
      “Mobile home community sites shall: 1. meet all requirements of the local zoning commission; and 2. be approved by the commission; before construction begins. (c) Every shelter occupied as a residence in a mobile home community, whether mobile or permanent, shall be: 1. equipped with toilet, sink, and bath or shower facilities; and 2. Connected to the water supply and sewer service; before occupancy.”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Indiana counties' authority to adopt and enforce administrative building-code provisions, including building-permit or plan-review requirements, for residential construction in their jurisdiction, including Class 2 one- and two-dwelling-unit structures.

    • A county's substantive building and fire-safety provisions outside mere incorporation of Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission rules are described by IDHS as unenforceable and may not be adopted; modification of Commission standards may occur only through Commission rulemaking.
    • The State's county-or-municipality model ordinance excludes industrialized building systems and mobile structures certified under IC 22-15-4.
    • The model ordinance states that it is not applicable to regulated amusement devices, regulated boilers, regulated pressure vessels, or regulated lifting devices.
    • The model ordinance conditions permit issuance on a complete application, any applicable fee, conformity with applicable building and fire-safety laws, and no violation of other applicable ordinances or laws.
    “HEA 1575 did not eliminate the authority of local jurisdictions to adopt and enforce administrative provisions in building and fire safety ordinances”

Inside cities and towns in Montgomery County

Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.

  • Building permitRequired

    Residential new construction, additions, remodels, pools, sheds, porches, decks, and fences in the City of Crawfordsville.

    • A permit application, construction plans, site plan, and subcontractor listing are required.
    • If the residence uses septic, a Montgomery County Health Department septic permit must be obtained before the city building permit may be issued.
    • The claim is limited to the City of Crawfordsville and does not establish the rule for unincorporated Montgomery County.
    “To obtain a building permit in the City of Crawfordsville for residential new construction, addition, remodel, pool, shed, porch, deck, and/or fence the following must be completed:”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Permitted residential projects in the City of Crawfordsville.

    • Inspections are scheduled by the owner or applicant directly with the City Building Inspector.
    • The source specifically addresses city permitting and does not establish inspection requirements for unincorporated Montgomery County.
    “Inspections will be scheduled by the owner or applicant directly with the City Building Inspector. Once the final inspection has been completed, the Department of Planning will issue a certificate of occupancy.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Occupancy or use of permitted projects in the City of Crawfordsville.

    • A final inspection must be completed before the certificate is issued.
    • Occupancy or use is prohibited until the certificate of occupancy has been issued.
    • The source is city-specific and does not establish a countywide certificate-of-occupancy rule.
    “Once the final inspection has been completed, the Department of Planning will issue a certificate of occupancy. A copy will be mailed to the owner and the applicant of each permit. Occupancy and/or use of the project is prohibited until a certificate of occupancy has been issued.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land within the City of Crawfordsville, Montgomery County, Indiana, governed by the City's Unified Development Ordinance.

    • The City UDO is effective July 1, 2026.
    • The Planning Director or designated department staff serves as Zoning Administrator and enforces the UDO, receives applications, issues permits, and furnishes certificates.
    • The UDO includes review and approval or denial of permits required by the UDO.
    “The Planning Director, and/or designated staff of the Department, is designated as the Zoning Administrator.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land within the City of Crawfordsville, Montgomery County, Indiana.
      “The Planning Director, and/or designated staff of the Department, is designated as the Zoning Administrator. The Administrator is authorized and directed to enforce and implement the provisions of the Unified Development Ordinance of the City of Crawfordsville (UDO), receive applications required by this UDO, issue permits, and furnish the prescribed certificates.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Owner-builder exemption — Whether an owner-builder may obtain or use Montgomery County construction permits without a licensed contractor.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in unincorporated Montgomery County, excluding the City of Crawfordsville and its two-mile jurisdiction.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot size in unincorporated Montgomery County, excluding the City of Crawfordsville and its two-mile jurisdiction.
  • Setbacks — General building setbacks in unincorporated Montgomery County, excluding the City of Crawfordsville and its two-mile jurisdiction.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage in unincorporated Montgomery County, excluding the City of Crawfordsville and its two-mile jurisdiction.
6 more unanswered
  • Building height
  • Living in an RV
  • Camping on your land
  • Tiny homes
  • Accessory dwellings
  • Short-term rentals

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Montgomery County, Indiana

Is Montgomery County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Montgomery County scores 60/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: a durable current and mid-century hazard profile and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: about 47,817 people within a 30-minute drive.

Do you need a building permit in Montgomery County, Indiana?

Montgomery County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Montgomery County Health Department. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Montgomery County, Indiana?

Land in Montgomery County runs about $8,819 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Montgomery County?

Montgomery County gets about 42.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 1.9% of years.

How remote is Montgomery County?

A representative private-land location has about 47,817 people within a 30-minute drive and 4,323,418 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Montgomery compares in Indiana

Compare side-by-side →See all 92 Indiana counties ranked →