INDIANAPOLIS — On April 1, the City of Indianapolis enacted its’ completely revamped zoning code. The new ordinance replaces the 47-year-old version and will help usher in a new era of modern, urbanized growth.
Th update was driven by Indy Rezone, a special initiative of the Department of Metropolitan Development (DMD). Indy Rezone was a five-year planning and public engagement process made possible by a $ 1.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
“The new ordinance allows our zoning code to catch up to our shared vision for the future of our community,” Mayor Joe Hogsett said. “Indianapolis is a collection of vibrant, distinctive neighborhoods that will no longer be limited by an outdated code. The revisions include details designed to enhance quality of life for the entirety of our city.”
The overarching goal of the five-year initiative was to guide Indianapolis forward using zoning as a tool to combat issues the city faces. The new ordinance introduces a Vacant Building provision that allows certain additional uses in specific districts if the building has been vacant for more than five years. This provision paves the way for redevelopment opportunities throughout Indianapolis.
“There are areas of our city that are in need of reinvestment,” DMD Director Emily Mack explained. “Indy Rezone aims to tackle the challenges we face by thinking holistically about community development and supporting and valuing existing communities and neighborhoods while providing more transportation options, promoting equitable, affordable housing, and enhancing Indy’s economic competitiveness.”
While the City has taken careful measures to prepare itself for the transition, it is also working to educate the public on significant changes that may have a direct impact on their lives. These include updates to Indianapolis’ plans for walkability/bikability, stream corridors, flooding, trees and landscaping, personal livestock and gardens, safety, renewable energy, and redevelopment opportunities.
To access the code and watch webinars on these topics and more, visit: www.indy.gov/revisecode.