Improving acceptability of Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) projects among local households requires adaptive policy approach based on the implementation experience of such projects. This paper analyses the current state of REDD+ implementation in Indonesia based on a synthesis of policy documents, published studies and our field research. A key finding of this analysis is that enhancing the acceptability of REDD+ is contingent on the appropriation of its benefits and costs to affected households, which further depends on forest management regime – private, community, and government. In implementing REDD+ projects, efficiency can be achieved by targeting selected groups as REDD+ participants, adapting transparent implementation mechanism, and sharing factual information among local communities to mitigate REDD+ scepticism.