Indianapolis ADU permit requirements
Last reviewed: June 22, 2026
Quick answer
Permitting an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in Indianapolis, Indiana means pulling a building permit from the local authority that issues it. ArchPermit tracks 15 source-cited requirements (9 required, the rest conditional) for this jurisdiction. Submittals go through Accela Citizen Access (DBNS). These requirements were last reviewed June 22, 2026; confirm the exact forms and fees with the local permitting authority.
A source-cited checklist of what an ADU (accessory dwelling unit) permit package needs in Indianapolis. Every item links to its authoritative source; items that vary are flagged to confirm locally.
In Indianapolis–Marion County zoning an ADU is a 'Secondary Dwelling Unit' (SDU), an accessory use ('A') permitted by-right in the dwelling districts where the use table marks it (a variance is needed only if a development standard isn't met), subject to Section 06.EE: one SDU per lot, owner-occupancy of either the primary or secondary unit (so both can't be rentals), a separate entrance, and one additional off-street parking space. A detached SDU is permitted as a New Accessory Structure and typically needs an Improvement Location Permit + Structural Permit + Drainage Permit. Confirm the current size/district limits against the live ordinance (the 2016 figure of 720 sf may be amended).
- Building Elevations (all four sides)required
Elevation drawings of all sides of the existing or proposed structure.
source · reviewed 2026-06-22 - Floor Plan(s) with Legendrequired
For all floors in scope; legend indicating proposed work, rooms labeled with existing/proposed use, smoke-detector locations, and all doors/windows.
source · reviewed 2026-06-22 - Foundation Planrequired
Complete foundation plan for the new accessory structure.
source · reviewed 2026-06-22 - Residential Development Application or Class 2 Structural Permit Applicationrequired
The Residential Development Application (when an Improvement Location Permit is required, e.g. a new detached ADU) and the Class 2 (Residential) Structural Permit Application, completed and signed.
source · reviewed 2026-06-22 - Residential Plan Submittal Checklist (completed)required
The DBNS checklist itself, completed and submitted with the application to confirm the minimum submittal items.
source · reviewed 2026-06-22 - Site Plan / Plot Planrequired
Drawn to 1"=30' (or 1"=40' for large lots): north arrow, lot/subdivision or metes-and-bounds, all existing/proposed structures, setback distances to all property lines, driveway, easements, and septic-tank location if applicable.
source · reviewed 2026-06-22 - Two (2) Complete Sets of Plans (to scale)required
All documents drawn to a standard engineer or architect scale; two full sets with scale, property address, and date shown.
source · reviewed 2026-06-22 - Wall Cross-Section (roof system to foundation)required
Full section labeling all construction elements; one section per distinct wall type (a 'typical' section is not sufficient).
source · reviewed 2026-06-22 - Window & Door Framing Detailsrequired
Framing details for windows and doors.
source · reviewed 2026-06-22 - Certificate of Appropriateness (IHPC) + Stamped Plansconditional
Required if the property is in a historic district and exterior work is performed (Indianapolis Historic Preservation Commission).
source · reviewed 2026-06-22 - Egress Windows Labeled in Bedroomsconditional
Egress windows must be labeled in all bedrooms (any ADU with sleeping rooms).
source · reviewed 2026-06-22 - Energy Code Compliance Report (REScheck / software)conditional
A REScheck report (Total UA Alternative) or a software report (Performance pathway); the prescriptive pathway needs no separate report.
source · reviewed 2026-06-22 - Engineer-Sealed Truss Specificationsconditional
A sealed, engineered roof-truss packet required if engineered trusses are used.
source · reviewed 2026-06-22 - Sewer Connection Permit (Citizens Energy Group)conditional
Required for new construction connecting to sewer; must be obtained before the Structural permit issues (external agency).
source · reviewed 2026-06-22 - Statement of Intent and Understandingconditional
Required only if the property owner (not a licensed contractor) is performing/pulling the permit.
source · reviewed 2026-06-22