Indianapolis, IN Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- Program
- Indianapolis Native Plant Program
- Cost
- Free registration
- Native minimum
- At least 70% native species
- Re-register
- Every 3 years
- Contact
- nativeplants@indy.gov
Summary
The City of Indianapolis encourages native planting areas and offers a free registration that exempts a properly maintained native planting area from a weed citation, even though such areas often have vegetation over twelve inches tall.
The City of Indianapolis encourages the use of native planting areas. However, since many native planting areas have vegetation over 12 inches tall, it is important to fill out and submit this form to avoid a weed citation. The registration is FREE. ... [Applicant agrees to have] Planted at least 70% of the planting area in native plant species ... Re-register my native planting area every three (3) years from the date this agreement is approved.
Full Breakdown
Because Indianapolis treats grass or weeds over twelve inches tall as a high-weeds nuisance, a deliberate native planting area would otherwise risk a citation. To resolve this, the City's Native Plant Program lets owners register a native planting area for free. The owner submits a registration form (with a sketch, photos, and a list of plant species) to nativeplants@indy.gov or the Native Plant Program at 200 E. Washington St., Suite 1401; at least 70% of the planting area must be native plant species. Once approved the owner receives a 'Registered Native Planting Area' sign and an acceptance letter and must maintain the site per the City's Maintenance Guidance, control invasive species, avoid planting in utility/drainage easements and road right-of-way areas, and re-register every three years (new seed plantings get a one-year approval, extended to three after re-evaluation).
Violations & Fines
An unregistered planting area over twelve inches tall can receive a high-weeds citation. A registered, properly maintained native planting area is protected from a weed citation; failure to maintain it per the agreement or to re-register can forfeit that protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant a native garden taller than twelve inches in Indianapolis?
How do I register a native planting area?
How long does the registration last?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Indianapolis
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