Request Traffic Calming & Speed Bumps in Indianapolis

Transportation Indiana 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 06, 2026 Flag of Indiana

Introduction

In Indianapolis, Indiana, residents can request traffic calming measures such as speed bumps, signage, or lane changes to reduce speeding and improve neighborhood safety. This guide explains how the City evaluates requests, who enforces rules, what evidence and petitions help a request, and the typical steps to apply, appeal, and monitor results. Use this as a practical roadmap for organizing neighbors, documenting problems, and engaging the Department of Public Works and Traffic Engineering for review.

How the traffic calming process works

The City evaluates requests based on traffic data, crash history, roadway function, and community support. Typical measures include speed humps, curb extensions, enhanced signage, pavement markings, and targeted enforcement. Because many traffic calming treatments affect emergency response or drainage, the City balances safety gains against operational impacts.

Start by documenting speeds, volumes, and incidents before filing a request.

Preparing a neighborhood request

  • Collect evidence: dates, times, photos, and crash reports where available.
  • Gather signatures: many programs require a petition or proof of neighborhood support.
  • Map the problem: mark start/end points, driveways, schools, and transit stops.
  • Contact neighbors and local associations early to build consensus.
Local coordination reduces delays during evaluation and design.

Evaluation criteria

  • Speed and volume thresholds used by the City for prioritization (specific thresholds not specified on the cited page).
  • Crash history and proximity to vulnerable land uses such as schools or senior facilities.
  • Technical feasibility: road width, drainage, transit routes, and emergency access.

Penalties & Enforcement

The traffic calming program itself is administrative and focuses on capital or operational changes; enforcement of speeding and traffic violations remains the responsibility of law enforcement. Specific monetary fines for creating unauthorized traffic control devices or altering public roadway geometry are not specified on the cited page.

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first or repeat offence ranges not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary remedies: orders to remove unauthorized devices, restoration of pavement, or court action may be used; specific remedies not specified on the cited page.
  • Enforcer: typically the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department enforces moving violations; project review and installation decisions are by the Department of Public Works / Traffic Engineering.
  • Appeals and review: formal appeal routes and time limits for traffic calming decisions are not specified on the cited page; contact DPW for appeal procedures.
Unauthorized installation of speed bumps can result in required removal and liability; always coordinate with the City.

Applications & Forms

The Department of Public Works publishes a Traffic Calming Request process and a request form on its site; the exact form name or number and any fees are not specified on the cited page. Submit requests per DPW instructions and include petitions, site maps, and supporting evidence.

Action steps for neighborhood groups

  • Document speeding and safety hazards with dates, photos, and witness statements.
  • Collect a petitioner list or neighborhood signatures to demonstrate support.
  • Contact the Department of Public Works to request an initial evaluation and to obtain the official request form.
  • Attend any community meetings or field reviews scheduled by City staff.

FAQ

How do I request speed bumps or other traffic calming?
Submit a Traffic Calming Request to the Department of Public Works with supporting evidence and neighborhood petitions; the City will review for technical feasibility and community impact.
How long does the review take?
Review timelines vary by workload and project complexity; exact timelines are not specified on the cited page but expect several weeks to months for evaluation and public process.
Who decides and who enforces traffic calming?
The Department of Public Works and Traffic Engineering evaluate and implement measures; enforcement of speed limits is by law enforcement agencies.

How-To

  1. Gather data: record speeds, volumes, and incidents over a representative period.
  2. Organize neighbors and collect signatures on a petition supporting the request.
  3. Contact the Department of Public Works to obtain the Traffic Calming Request form and submission instructions.
  4. Submit the completed request with maps and evidence; attend any site visits or meetings scheduled by staff.
  5. Work with City staff through design, public notification, and final approvals.
  6. After installation, monitor effectiveness and report problems to DPW for follow-up.

Key Takeaways

  • Start with data and neighborhood support before filing a request.
  • Work directly with the Department of Public Works and Traffic Engineering for approvals.
  • Technical feasibility and emergency access are primary considerations for installations.

Help and Support / Resources

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