The Indiana Closing of Ways Code or Ordinance refers to legislation and regulations which govern the process of closing or discontinuing public roads or other rights-of-way in the state of Indiana, United States. These codes and ordinances are designed to provide a legal framework and specific procedures for permanently closing, vacating, or abandoning public roads. The closing of ways code in Indiana encompasses various types or categories of closing actions, each serving different purposes based on the specific circumstances or needs of the state or local municipality. Some different types of Indiana Closing of Ways Code or Ordinance include: 1. Abandonment: Abandonment refers to the permanent cessation of public use and ownership of a road or right-of-way. This may occur when a road becomes obsolete, no longer serves its intended purpose, or is reclaimed by nature. 2. Vacation: Vacation refers to the formal process of closing or discontinuing a public road permanently, usually in response to changing development patterns, safety concerns, or infrastructure requirements. This process typically involves the transfer of ownership and control from the public to adjacent landowners or the government. 3. Closure: Closure refers to the act of physically closing off a public road or right-of-way due to safety hazards, emergency situations, construction projects, or event management. Temporary closures are often administered under the jurisdiction of local authorities or transportation agencies. 4. Annexation: Annexation involves the incorporation of unincorporated areas into the boundaries of an existing city or town. During this process, roads or rights-of-way within the annexed territory may be subject to closure or reevaluation based on the needs of the new jurisdiction. The Indiana Closing of Ways Code or Ordinance provides guidelines and requirements for initiating and completing these different types of closures. The process typically involves public notice, hearings, and consultations with various stakeholders, including adjoining landowners, government agencies, and the public. Additionally, the code may outline compensation mechanisms for affected property owners, addressing any potential property rights concerns. It is essential for anyone involved in road closures or considering acquiring or developing land near a public road to familiarize themselves with the specific regulations and procedures set forth by the Indiana Closing of Ways Code or Ordinance. Compliance with these codes ensures a transparent and lawful process that balances the needs of public infrastructure, private property rights, and the overall welfare of the community.