Indiana

IC 36-7-4-201. Application of chapter; purpose Sec. 201. (a) For purposes of IC 36-1-3-6, a unit wanting to exercise planning and zoning powers in Indiana, including the issuance of permits under IC 8-1-32.3, must do so in the manner provided by this chapter. (b) The purpose of this chapter is to encourage units to improve the health, safety, convenience, and welfare of their citizens and to plan for the future development of their communities to the end: (1) that highway systems be carefully planned; (2) that new communities grow only with adequate public way, utility, health, educational, and recreational facilities; (3) that the needs of agriculture, forestry, industry, and business be recognized in future growth; (4) that residential areas provide healthful surroundings for family life; and (5) that the growth of the community is commensurate with and promotive of the efficient and economical use of public funds. IC 36-7-4-601. Zoning ordinance; powers and duties of legislative body Sec. 601. (a) The legislative body having jurisdiction over the geographic area described in the zoning ordinance has exclusive authority to adopt a zoning ordinance under the 600 series. However, no zoning ordinance may be adopted until a comprehensive plan has been approved for the jurisdiction under the 500 series of this chapter. (b) When it adopts a zoning ordinance, the legislative body shall act for the purposes of: (1) securing adequate light, air, convenience of access, and safety from fire, flood, and other danger; (2) lessening or avoiding congestion in public ways; (3) promoting the public health, safety, comfort, morals, convenience, and general welfare; and (4) otherwise accomplishing the purposes of this chapter. (c) When it adopts a zoning ordinance, the legislative body shall: (1) designate the geographic area over which the plan commission shall exercise jurisdiction; and (2) incorporate by reference into the ordinance zone maps, as prepared by the plan commission.