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
Indianapolis ADU permit questions
- Do I need a permit to build an ADU in Indianapolis?
- Yes. An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in Indianapolis requires a building permit. ArchPermit tracks 15 cited requirements for this jurisdiction (9 required, the rest conditional). Always confirm the exact forms, fees, and code edition with the local permitting authority that issues the permit.
- What does an ADU permit package require in Indianapolis?
- Core required items include: Building Elevations (all four sides); Floor Plan(s) with Legend; Foundation Plan; Residential Development Application or Class 2 Structural Permit Application; Residential Plan Submittal Checklist (completed); Site Plan / Plot Plan, plus 3 more. Each requirement links to its authoritative source, and nothing is permit-ready until an independent licensed professional reviews and seals it.
- How are ADU permits submitted in Indianapolis?
- Indianapolis accepts permit submittals via Accela Citizen Access (DBNS). ArchPermit prepares a draft package you can submit there after a licensed architect reviews and seals it.