Accessory Structures in Indianapolis, IN (2026)
5 verified accessory structures rules for Indianapolis, Indiana, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
ADUs are permitted in most Indianapolis-Marion County residential zones under the Consolidated Zoning Ordinance. Must be secondary to the primary dwelling; subject to setbacks, height limits, and design standards. No statewide IN ADU mandate — fully local. Permits required from DBNS.
Indianapolis ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Rules
Some RestrictionsShed Rules
Accessory structures in Indianapolis require permits for structures over 144 sq ft or those with electrical or plumbing. Governed by Indiana Residential Code (IRC 2018) and the Consolidated Zoning Ordinance. Setbacks per zoning district. DBNS: 317-327-2684.
Indianapolis Shed & Outbuilding Rules
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Garage conversions to living space or ADUs in Indianapolis require building permits and must comply with the Consolidated Zoning Ordinance. No statewide ADU mandate in Indiana; local zoning governs. ADU provisions of Code Ch. 744 apply to converted garages.
Indianapolis Garage Conversion Rules
Some RestrictionsCarport Rules
Indianapolis-Marion County regulates carports as accessory structures under the 2016 Consolidated Zoning Ordinance, particularly Chapter 743 (Uses and Use-Specific Standards) and Chapter 744 (Development Standards). Detached accessory structures must be located in a side or rear yard, meet the underlying dwelling district's setbacks, and remain within accessory-structure height limits typically capped at 15 feet. Building permits are administered by the Marion County Building Department under Title III, Chapter 536.
Carport Rules in Indianapolis
Some RestrictionsTiny Homes
Marion County permits tiny homes as long as they comply with the Indiana Residential Code; under Rev. Code Ch. 744 they require a permanent foundation, full utility hookups, and approved residential zoning.
Indianapolis Tiny Home Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for Marion County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Indianapolis city rules.
Accessory Structures in Marion County →