Tiny home rules in Marion County, IN — covering tiny houses on wheels (THOWs), park model RVs, and tiny home on foundation builds — determine where they are legal and how they get permitted.
Marion County treats foundation-built tiny homes as standard dwellings under the Indiana Residential Code (Appendix Q allows under 400 sq ft). Tiny homes on wheels are classified as RVs and cannot be used as permanent residences in residential zones.
Indianapolis regulates tiny homes based on construction type. Foundation-built tiny homes are dwellings subject to the 2020 Indiana Residential Code; Indiana has adopted IRC Appendix Q which sets specific standards for tiny houses 400 square feet or less (ceiling heights, loft areas, ladders, emergency egress). Minimum dwelling size in the Consolidated Zoning Ordinance varies by district but is generally 600 to 1,000 sq ft for single-family homes; tiny homes may need a variance. Tiny Homes on Wheels (THOW) are classified as RVs under Indiana BMV rules and cannot be used as permanent residences in residential-zoned parcels. RV/THOW occupancy is generally limited to licensed RV parks. Indianapolis passed ADU provisions in the 2016 Consolidated Zoning Ordinance allowing some secondary dwellings which can accommodate tiny-home-scale structures if properly permitted.
Unpermitted THOW occupancy: zoning violation, potential removal, fines up to $2,500. Unpermitted dwelling: stop-work plus retroactive permit review. Below-minimum size: requires variance or removal.
Marion County, IN
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Marion County, IN
Marion County requires vehicles parked in driveways not to block sidewalks. Parking on unpaved surfaces may be prohibited. Driveway modifications need permits.
Marion County, IN
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Marion County, IN
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Marion County, IN
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Marion County, IN
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See how Marion County's tiny homes rules stack up against other locations.
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