Indianapolis prohibits aggressive panhandling under Revised Code Ch. 407, banning solicitation involving threats, blocking, or following. Passive sign-holding remains protected speech, but solicitation in roadways and near ATMs is restricted.
Indianapolis Revised Code Ch. 407 bans aggressive panhandling — defined as soliciting with threatening language, physical touching, blocking the target's path, or following after refusal. The ordinance also restricts solicitation within 20 feet of ATMs, bus stops, and outdoor cafes, and prohibits roadway solicitation entirely as a traffic-safety measure. After federal Reed v. Town of Gilbert and Indiana Civil Liberties Union litigation, the city revised Ch. 407 in 2018 to drop content-based restrictions. Passive holding of a sign in legal areas is constitutionally protected. Enforcement priorities focus on downtown convention zones around the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium.
Touching a target, blocking pathways, soliciting near ATMs or bus stops, or asking for money in roadways. Charges range from ordinance fines to Class C misdemeanor for repeat or threatening conduct.
See how Indianapolis's aggressive panhandling rules stack up against other locations.
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