Indiana law lets large subdivisions set traffic rules on private roads

A homeowners association board may set a maximum speed limit and require vehicles to stop at selected intersections. These rules apply only in a subdivision governed by a homeowners association that has at least 1,500 lots and at least 15 miles of private roads owned and maintained by the association. Commercial, industrial, and retail sites, and private roads mainly serving those sites, are excluded. Speed limit signs and stop signs must meet state transportation department standards. When the board sets a speed limit, the association must notify the relevant county sheriff or, in a consolidated city, the chief of police, and any municipal police chief whose jurisdiction includes the subdivision. The chapter takes effect July 1, 2026, and expires July 1, 2028.

Law enforcement officers may enforce state vehicle laws on the subdivision’s private roads, including the association’s speed limits and stop requirements. This applies to officers enforcing state vehicle laws on private roads within a qualifying subdivision. Officers may not enforce other rules set by the association. An association that hires or contracts with an off-duty officer must first provide proof of liability insurance to the relevant sheriff and police chief, and agree to cover certain claims; this does not include claims for the officer’s willful or wanton misconduct or actions within the officer’s law-enforcement job. The officer must wear a distinctive uniform or use a clearly marked police vehicle. Police agencies do not have to patrol, enforce these traffic rules, or accept requests to do so. The authority and related rules apply from July 1, 2026, until the chapter expires July 1, 2028.

State police and certain county officials must report on how the chapter is working. The duty applies to state police and the sheriff and prosecutor of each county whose jurisdiction includes a subdivision where the association sets a speed limit under this chapter. The report must summarize implementation issues and count backup calls provided within the subdivision. The report is due to the General Assembly by October 1, 2027.