Real estate comes with a long list of regulations—but some laws in Indiana are downright strange. Whether you’re buying a home, selling one, or simply enjoy local trivia, these unusual property laws highlight how history, local governance, and real estate often intersect in surprising ways.
Here are 10 weird real estate laws that still exist (or once existed) in Indiana—and how they might still impact buyers, sellers, and landlords today.
1. You Can’t Ride a Horse Faster Than 10 MPH in Indianapolis
An old city ordinance in Indianapolis limits horse speeds to 10 miles per hour. While originally intended to maintain street safety during the horse-and-buggy era, this law still technically applies today.
Alt Text for Image: Historic horse carriage in downtown Indianapolis
Suggested Internal Link: [Explore Historical Homes in Indianapolis]
2. Every Bathroom Must Have a Working Light
Indiana building codes require that every bathroom in a home for sale or rent must have a functioning light. This rule seems obvious but can catch sellers off guard during inspections—especially in older homes with poor wiring.
Alt Text: Modern Indiana bathroom with lighting upgrades
Suggested Internal Link: [Top Renovations That Boost Indiana Home Value]
3. Property Owners Can Be Penalized for Sidewalk Spitting
In cities like Elkhart, sidewalk sanitation ordinances prohibit spitting—and the property owner may be held responsible if it happens adjacent to their land. While rare, it reflects the quirky relationship between public and private property rights.
Alt Text: Sidewalk view in Elkhart, Indiana
Suggested Internal Link: [What to Know About Owning Rental Property in Elkhart]
4. Only “Livable” Square Footage Can Be Listed
Indiana law allows only livable square footage to be listed in MLS entries. Unfinished basements, garages, or attics are excluded unless they meet specific usability standards.
Alt Text: Indiana home floor plan with finished basement
Suggested Internal Link: [Understanding Square Footage in Indiana Listings]
5. Musical Instruments May Be Banned in Condos
HOAs and condominium associations in Indiana can (and often do) limit or ban musical instruments in shared housing communities. Buyers need to check community rules before purchasing.
Alt Text: Sheet music on piano in an apartment
Suggested Internal Link: [What to Ask Before Buying in an Indiana HOA]
6. Haunted Houses Must Be Disclosed—Sometimes
If a home in Indiana has a public reputation for being haunted or was the site of a crime, agents are ethically obligated to disclose this under “stigmatized property” guidelines—even if there’s no official statute.
Alt Text: Victorian home with moody lighting in Indiana
Suggested Internal Link: [How to Handle Property Disclosures in Indiana]
7. Backyard Chickens Are Regulated
In places like Fishers and Zionsville, raising chickens is heavily regulated or outright banned in some zoning categories. Just because you have a large yard doesn’t mean you’re allowed to keep poultry.
Alt Text: Backyard chicken coop on suburban Indiana lot
Suggested Internal Link: [Understanding Indiana Zoning Laws]
8. Tenants Can’t Withhold Rent Without Legal Action
Indiana tenants cannot legally withhold rent over unresolved repairs unless there’s a court ruling. This differs from more tenant-friendly states and underscores Indiana’s reputation as landlord-friendly.
Alt Text: Rental apartment unit in Fort Wayne
Suggested Internal Link: [Guide for New Landlords in Indiana]
9. You Can Be Fined for a Vacant-Looking Property
In South Bend and other Indiana cities, owners of visibly neglected or vacant homes can be fined, even if the home is structurally sound. Overgrown lawns or broken windows are enough to trigger citations.
Alt Text: Vacant Indiana home with boarded windows
Suggested Internal Link: [How to Maintain a Vacant Investment Property]
10. You Can’t Sell a Home with a Failed Septic System
Indiana law requires sellers to disclose and, in many cases, fix non-functioning septic systems before a sale. Local health departments often require proof of repairs or replacement prior to closing.
Alt Text: Septic inspection outside Indiana home
Suggested Internal Link: [What to Expect During Rural Home Inspections]
Final Thoughts
Indiana’s real estate landscape is shaped by a blend of history, law, and local custom. While most transactions go by the book, it’s helpful (and entertaining) to know that some of these unusual rules still exist. Whether you’re buying a home in downtown Indianapolis or managing rentals in Zionsville, having a knowledgeable local agent ensures you stay compliant—even with the quirks.
Sources and References
- Indiana Real Estate Commission: in.gov/pla/real.htm
- Indiana Department of Health: in.gov/health
- Indiana Association of Realtors: indianarealtors.com
- Indiana Historical Society: indianahistory.org
- Local city ordinances: Indianapolis, South Bend, Elkhart, Zionsville, Fishers
