Indianapolis, IN Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

Material restrictions appear in the Dwelling Districts Zoning Ordinance, section 731-219(b)(2)c.6 and c.7. Barbed wire, razor wire, and similar type wires are not permitted in any residential district as part of a structural barrier, except in the D-A (agricultural) district where they may be used only in conjunction with an agricultural enterprise. Likewise, no structural barrier may be electrified in any manner that could provide an electrical shock if touched, again except in the D-A district for agricultural use. The ordinance defines a fence broadly as 'a type of structural barrier usually made of posts supporting such items, by way of example, as chain link, wood pickets, lattice-work, and similar items.' Separately, in attached multifamily and mobile dwelling projects, chain-link fencing is not permitted in the front yard of the project, and is permitted in side and rear yards only if it is black-vinyl-covered chain link without slats (Sec. 731-221(f)(1)).