Indiana’s Evolving Code Review Process

 

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Indiana is continuing to modernize its building plan review process by placing more responsibility on licensed architects and engineers. Traditionally, many projects submitted for a state Design Release received a detailed code review before construction could move forward. Today, the process is shifting toward greater reliance on qualified design professionals to demonstrate compliance with applicable codes.

Effective July 1, 2026, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) implemented new plan review directives that include a self-certification process for certain projects designed by qualified professionals, along with stricter timelines for plan review decisions. The changes are intended to improve efficiency within Indiana’s Design Release program.

These updates are tied to Indiana’s Design Release framework under Indiana Code Title 22, Article 15, Chapter 3.2, which governs the review and approval process for many commercial construction projects.

While not every project will bypass a traditional review, the overall direction is clear: design teams are expected to take greater ownership of code compliance before documents are submitted. As a result, the quality and coordination of the design process become increasingly important.

 

What the Change Means for Engineers

 

For professional engineers, the shift reinforces a responsibility that has always existed. When an engineer seals a set of drawings, they are confirming that the design meets applicable codes, standards, and engineering practices.

As the review process becomes more streamlined, engineers should no longer view state plan review as a backstop for identifying code issues. Instead, sealed drawings become the primary demonstration of compliance.

The risks themselves are not new. Missed code requirements can still lead to redesign, construction changes, schedule impacts, and additional costs. The difference is that those issues are more likely to surface later if they are not identified and resolved during design.

This places increased importance on thoughtful code analysis, coordination across disciplines, and thorough internal reviews before documents are submitted.

 

How This Impacts Clients and Project Delivery

 

For owners and project stakeholders, the most immediate benefit may be faster project approvals. A more streamlined review process has the potential to shorten the time between design submission and permit issuance.

At the same time, success depends on the strength of the design team. With fewer opportunities for external review comments, projects benefit from experienced consultants who can identify compliance and coordination issues early.

Clients may notice greater emphasis on upfront planning and key design decisions. While this can require more effort during the early phases of a project, it often helps reduce costly revisions and field issues later in the process

 

How This Impacts Clients and Project Delivery

 

Strengthening Quality Control

At KBSO, we see this shift as an opportunity to reinforce the practices that already support successful projects.

Our teams continue to emphasize peer reviews, discipline coordination, and milestone-based quality control reviews to verify compliance and improve document quality before plans are submitted. By identifying potential concerns internally, we help support smoother permitting, construction, and project delivery.

Making Critical Decisions Earlier

As responsibility for compliance increasingly rests with the design team, early decision-making becomes even more valuable.

Code requirements influence system selection, space planning, infrastructure needs, and energy performance. Addressing those considerations early allows project teams to make informed decisions before schedules tighten and design changes become more costly.

At KBSO, we prioritize early collaboration among disciplines to identify challenges sooner and maintain momentum throughout the project lifecycle.

 

Looking Ahead

 

Indiana’s evolving code review process reflects a growing reliance on the expertise and professional judgment of licensed design professionals. While that comes with greater visibility and responsibility, it also creates opportunities for more efficient project delivery.

For KBSO, the shift aligns with the way we’ve always approached design: be thorough, communicate early, and solve problems before they reach the field. Through strong internal reviews, proactive coordination, and technical expertise, we remain committed to delivering safe, compliant, and high-quality solutions for our clients.