FAQs • Fishers, IN • CivicEngage

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Why does this code only cover the downtown area?: The entire city is regulated by zoning standards that regulate building setbacks, architecture, and development standards. The code only regulates the downtown area because this area is seen as unique within the community and is being targeted for more urban, infill development. What is appropriate for downtown is not appropriate for all areas of city.

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Community Development - Nickel Plate District Code

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1. Will the city be purchasing my property?: No. No land acquisition is part of this code. The code regulates how development can occur, much in the same way our current Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) does. Learn more.

2. Why do we need additional/new regulations?: Zoning regulations are already established throughout Fishers and have been in place for decades. The Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) establishes these regulations. The code regulates the same elements (building size, architecture, landscape, parking, etc.), but provides more flexibility for more creative site design. Learn more.

3. Will I have to modify my home/business to meet the new code immediately?: No. You may continue using the structure as you do today. However, if you plan to rebuild the property or want a renovation/expansion greater than 20% of the building’s floor area, you will need to comply with the new code at that time.

4. Why are roads being proposed across existing neighborhoods?: The downtown area lacks east-west connectivity, which forces all traffic onto 116th Street. Accommodating new connections will help to connect the downtown to itself and reduce congestion on 116th Street. The roads also bring sidewalks, which will increase pedestrian connectivity.

5. Does this code accommodate alternative transportation?: Yes. The code provides density around the Fishers Station, which is being studied as part of the regional transit system. The code also establishes pedestrian facilities as well as bike corridors to increase connectivity in the downtown area.

6. Why does this code only cover the downtown area?: The entire city is regulated by zoning standards that regulate building setbacks, architecture, and development standards. The code only regulates the downtown area because this area is seen as unique within the community and is being targeted for more urban, infill development. What is appropriate for downtown is not appropriate for all areas of city.

7. What if my home is destroyed by nature?: You may rebuild the home as it was. If you would like to expand the home, change how the home sits on the site, or otherwise modify the property then the property would have to conform to the new code.

8. What if my business is destroyed by nature?: You may rebuild/remodel if the loss is less than 51% of the structure’s appraised value. Any loss equal to or greater than 51% would require rebuilding to the new code.