Recent amateur radio reporting for the Smith-Manley station.

In a major legislative victory for amateur radio operators, the state of Indiana has passed HB 1152, a law preventing homeowners associations (HOAs) from enforcing rules that restrict amateur radio equipment, including antennas, towers, and feedlines, when such restrictions are adopted or amended after June 30, 2026. This change ensures that many hams living under HOA governance can maintain and upgrade their stations without fear of losing the ability to install necessary antenna systems—as long as the relevant rules are new or updated.

The law stems from advocacy by Indiana amateur radio operator Hunter Reed, KD9YLQ, who drafted the amendment in collaboration with State Senator Alexander. Reed explained that once an HOA updates its governing documents after the cutoff date, it must comply with the new state requirement and cannot include amateur radio restrictions in new rules. However, previously enacted HOA rules remain enforceable if they are not amended after June 30, 2026. This carve‑out provides a clear timeline for change and encourages HOAs to avoid adopting fresh restrictions that could hinder amateur radio operations.

This recent development follows a broader national trend of legal protections for amateur radio antennas. Several states have enacted “reasonable accommodation” laws or building code exemptions, citing federal PRB‑1 guidance. Indiana’s HB 1152 is notable for its clear effective-date trigger—tying compliance to HOA document revisions after a fixed date—and for explicitly including all amateur radio equipment in its protections, not limited to just antennas or towers.

For amateur radio operators under HOA governance, the law offers both a safeguard and a call to action. Operators should review their HOA’s rules to determine whether any restrictions are scheduled for revision or renewal. If so, operators may wish to engage proactively during those revision processes, leveraging the new law to advocate for station-friendly regulations. The law does not retroactively affect existing prohibitions, but it does prevent future HOA amendments from curbing amateur radio rights.

Indiana’s move represents a strong affirmation of the community’s rights and reflects growing recognition of amateur radio’s value—not only as a hobby but also as a public service resource. Whether for emergency communications, technical experimentation, or community building, hams can now expect more secure footing when it comes to installing and operating radio equipment at home.