Cal. Civ. Code § 22-9.5-2-8
"Dwelling" defined
Operative Text
Sec. 8. "Dwelling" means: (1) any building, structure, or part of a building or structure that is occupied as, or designed or intended for occupancy as, a residency by one (1) or more families; or (2) any vacant land that is offered for sale or lease for the construction or location of a building, structure, or part of a building or structure described by subdivision (1).
Indiana Code § 22-9.5-2-8 establishes what the term 'dwelling' means for purposes of the state's fair housing law. The definition covers two categories: (1) any building or structure—or portion thereof—that is occupied, designed, or intended for residential use by one or more families, and (2) vacant land offered for sale or lease where such a residential structure could be built or placed. By setting this definition, the provision determines which properties fall within the scope of the fair housing protections established elsewhere in the chapter.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Ind. Code § 22-9.5-2-8, property owners and managers should be aware that the term 'dwelling' extends broadly across the residential real estate spectrum—from single-family homes and multi-unit buildings to individual units within larger structures. Importantly, the definition also reaches vacant land marketed for residential construction or placement of a home, meaning fair housing obligations can apply even before a structure exists. Operators who sell, lease, or otherwise deal in any of these property types generally conduct their practices in accordance with the fair housing requirements that rely on this definition.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Ind. Code § 22-9.5-2-8 defines the kinds of properties that qualify as 'dwellings' under Indiana's fair housing law, which in turn determines where fair housing protections apply. If a tenant believes they have experienced discriminatory treatment in connection with a residential building, unit, or even vacant land intended for residential use, that property may fall within this definition and trigger applicable protections. Tenants who believe their rights under the fair housing chapter have been violated may consider contacting a tenant-rights organization, a local fair housing agency, or the Indiana Civil Rights Commission to explore available options.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 14, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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