The Fishers City Council has unanimously approved a first-of-its-kind ordinance in Indiana, placing a 10% cap on rental homes per subdivision for single-family residences. While the Council stood united in the vote, public opinion during the meeting was clearly split.
Despite the division among speakers, councilors said their decision was driven by overwhelming feedback from constituents, with many reporting that 70% to 90% of public input supporting the cap.
Two major questions now loom following the vote: Will the ordinance withstand the legal challenges that are expected to follow, and will state lawmakers intervene?
During the public hearing, one speaker cited two sections of the Indiana Code she believes conflict with the new ordinance. With strong opposition from major real estate associations, a court battle seems likely.
At the state level, efforts have already been made to override local control on this issue. A provision was quietly added to a conference committee report at the Indiana General Assembly that would ban municipalities from enacting rental caps. However, Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness informed City Council members—via a message obtained by LarryInFishers—that legislative leaders have assured him the language restricting local rental limits has been, or will be, removed from the pending bill.
Defending the ordinance before the Council, Mayor Fadness argued the measure is essential for the long-term sustainability of Fishers. He characterized the opposition as being driven by “special interest groups.”
During the public comment period, 14 residents spoke within the 30-minute time limit set by Council President Pete Peterson. Opinions were evenly divided, and audience reactions—gauged by applause—reflected the same split.
While expressing confidence in the ordinance, Council members also acknowledged the need for vigilance. Several stated the city must be ready to address any unforeseen consequences, especially since Fishers is the first municipality in Indiana to implement such a policy.
