Indiana Code Title 8. Utilities and Transportation § 8-2-15-5

Sec. 5. The person owning or possessing lands on both sides of any stream where a ferry is proposed to be established shall have the exclusive right of a license for a ferry at such place;  and when the opposite banks are owned by different persons, the right to the ferry shall be mutual;  but if the owner does not apply, the board shall grant a license to any person applying for the same;  except where either of the landings is not on a public highway, the consent of the owner of the ground shall first be had in writing.