Indianapolis residents whose homes were damaged by the severe August floods will no longer have to pay certain building‑permit fees. Mayor Joe Hogsett signed an executive order on Oct. 30 that indefinitely waives improvement‑location permits and flood‑plain development fees for properties located in designated flood‑impacted areas.
How the waiver works
The city’s Department of Business and Neighborhood Services is tasked with identifying the flood‑impacted zones. Once a property is confirmed to be in one of those zones, owners can apply for the required permits through the Accela Citizens Access Portal without incurring the usual fees.
Why the city is taking action
Mayor Hogsett first announced a temporary fee waiver the week after the floods destroyed homes in Ravenswood and several other neighborhoods. The decision reflects the administration’s commitment to helping families recover quickly and to restoring safe, livable neighborhoods without adding financial burdens.
What homeowners need to know
To take advantage of the waiver, property owners should submit their improvement‑location permit applications through the city’s online portal. The portal provides step‑by‑step guidance, and the city has published a short guide to help residents navigate the process. The waiver applies only to fees; all other building‑code requirements and inspections remain in effect to ensure safety and compliance.
Community response
Local residents and neighborhood associations have praised the move, noting that the fee relief will allow families to focus resources on repairs and reconstruction rather than administrative costs. Some critics have asked for broader assistance, such as additional grant programs, but the mayor’s office emphasized that the fee waiver is a concrete, immediate step that can be implemented quickly.
Looking ahead
The city will continue to monitor flood‑damage assessments and adjust the list of eligible properties as needed. Mayor Hogsett’s administration says the indefinite waiver demonstrates a long‑term commitment to resilient rebuilding and to supporting Indianapolis families as they restore their homes and neighborhoods.
For more information on applying for permits and accessing the fee‑waiver guide, visit the City of Indianapolis website or contact the Department of Business and Neighborhood Services.
Original reporting: Mirror Indy — read the source article.
