This page contains sample ordinances and practices local governments are using to address the challenges presented by foreclosures and vacant properties.
Sample Ordinances and Policies
Sample Grasscutting Ordinance- City of Fayetteville ordinance regarding grass and brush accumulation (pdf) Sample Grass, Weed and Brush Ordinance - City of Waterville, MN ordinance regarding grass and brush accumulation (pdf) Grass Cutting - Assessing Owners for the Cost of Compliance - an article on an approach to nuisance ordinance enforcement from Cleveland (pdf)
Innovative Practices
Clean and Lien - Union City's response to blighted foreclosures using City labor and property liens (pdf) Foreclosure Cleanup w/ Inmate Labor - Clayton County's approach to addressing the blight of foreclosures (pdf) Cleveland Land Bank - HUD and a land bank in the Cleveland area collaborate to reduce blighted housing (pdf) City of Sandy Springs – Vacant Property Enforcement Program - The City of Sandy Springs developed this comprehensive approach to address vacant properties that includes a blend of compliance strategies and enforcement remedies. Read more about this program on our Local Government Awards page for program details and local contact information.