Bill > SB0179

This bill modifies Indiana's zoning regulations regarding quarry and mining locations by changing the definition of an "urban area" from requiring eight residences to requiring five residences within a quarter square mile area. Specifically, the legislation amends existing law to lower the residential density threshold that would allow a planning and zoning authority to prohibit mining and logging activities. Under the updated provision, an urban area now includes: (1) lands within municipal corporate boundaries, (2) areas with at least five residences in a quarter mile square, and (3) residential areas contiguous to municipalities. The bill maintains the existing protection for property owners outside urban areas, ensuring they can still fully use and sell mineral resources or forests on their land. This change takes effect on July 1, 2025, and appears designed to provide more flexibility for local zoning authorities in regulating mining activities near residential areas by expanding the definition of what constitutes an urban area.

Government Affairs

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/senate/179/details