Fishers, IN Homelessness & Encampment Rules: Encampment Sanitation (2026)

Fishers' Park Regulations chapter bans unauthorized overnight camping citywide in its park and trail system. City Code § 96.16(D)(8) makes it unlawful 'to pitch or maintain a tent or other improvised shelter in a park or on a trail for the purpose of overnight camping without a permit from the Department.' The rule is general-purpose, it targets anyone camping without authorization, not encampments specifically, and sits alongside companion bans on building campfires without a permit (§ 96.16(D)(4)) and erecting any unpermitted structure in a park (§ 96.16(D)(7)(d)). Violators face a $50 fine, rising to $100 if unpaid within 30 days, under the Chapter 96 fine schedule, plus restitution for any property damage.