PERCH · ADU LEGALITY INDEX · UPDATED 2026-07-17

ADU Laws in Indiana — 2026 Guide

Statute summary, size caps, owner-occupancy rules, permit timelines, and a 4-question eligibility quiz. Part of the PERCH ADU Legality Index — one page per state, verified against real statute references and updated as laws change.

4-question eligibility quiz

Q1 · State
What state are you building in?
Q2 · Lot size
How big is the lot?
Q3 · Zoning
What zoning district is the lot in?
Q4 · Property type
Which best describes the build?
Result

Key rules · Indiana

Statute summaryIndiana HB 1179 (2024) required cities over 60,000 population to permit at least one ADU pathway by right. Indianapolis permits by-right in most residential zones since 2022.
ADU allowedConditional — depends on jurisdiction
Size cap (sqft)800
Owner-occupancy requiredNo
Permit timeline (days)25-80
Statute citationHB 1179 (2024)
Last verified2026-07-17

Frequently Asked Questions

Are ADUs legal in Indiana?
Yes, conditionally — Indiana permits ADUs on qualifying lots per HB 1179 (2024). Larger cities generally lead adoption; smaller municipalities may apply variance or conditional-use permit requirements.
What are the size limits on an ADU in Indiana?
Indiana permits ADUs up to approximately 800 square feet per HB 1179 (2024). Individual municipalities may set lower caps; verify with your city or county planning department before ordering.
Do I need a permit for an ADU in Indiana?
Yes — every ADU in Indiana requires a building permit issued by the city or county. The permit process typically runs 25-80 days depending on jurisdiction, complexity, and whether discretionary review is triggered.
Can I rent out my ADU in Indiana?
Long-term rental is generally permitted in Indiana where the ADU itself is legal. Short-term rental (under 30 days) is subject to municipal registration and may require additional permits; check with your local planning department.
Does Indiana require owner-occupancy on the primary residence when I have an ADU?
No — Indiana does not require owner-occupancy under state statute per HB 1179 (2024). Local ordinances may still add owner-occupancy requirements in specific cities.
What zoning districts allow ADUs in Indiana?
Most Indiana municipalities permit ADUs in single-family residential zones (R-1, R-2 equivalent). Indiana HB 1179 (2024) required cities over 60,000 population to permit at least one ADU pathway by right. Indianapolis permits by-right in most residential zones since 2022. Consult your city zoning code for the specific district table.
How long does an ADU permit take in Indiana?
Typical ADU permit timelines in Indiana run 25-80 days from application to approval. Fast-permitting counties can move in under 30 days; metro-core jurisdictions with discretionary review can extend to 150+ days.
Are there setback requirements for an ADU in Indiana?
Yes — most Indiana municipalities apply the same setback requirements to ADUs that apply to the primary structure (typically 5-10 feet rear and side, 15-25 feet front). Some cities apply reduced setbacks specifically for detached ADUs. Verify with your city zoning code.
Can I finance an ADU purchase in Indiana?
Yes — several financing pathways cover ADU purchases in Indiana: Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation, FHA 203(k), construction-to-perm loans, HELOC on the primary residence, and cash. Check with modular-friendly lenders like 21st Mortgage, Cascade Financial, and Triad Financial for the Indiana-specific product.
What's the difference between an ADU and a JADU in Indiana?
The JADU (Junior ADU) category originated in California and is not a distinct legal category in Indiana. Most Indiana municipalities regulate internal conversions and detached units under a single ADU/accessory apartment definition.

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