Property Maintenance in Memphis, TN (2026)
2 verified property maintenance rules for Memphis, Tennessee, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Property Blight
Memphis aggressively enforces blight through Code Enforcement under Ordinance No. 5708 (International Property Maintenance Code) and the Environmental Court. The Blight Elimination Program targets abandoned, deteriorated, and dangerous structures. Properties with overgrown vegetation, accumulated debris, broken windows, or structural deterioration can receive citations. The Environmental Court can order demolition of severely blighted structures. Memphis also uses the Neighborhood Preservation Act to address chronic blight.
Memphis Property Blight & Nuisance Ordinance
Heavy RestrictionsOrdinance No. 5708, International Property Maintenance Code of the City of Memphis Code of Ordinances; Section 104.7 (Lien Waiver Hearing)
The purpose of the Department of Housing Code Enforcement is to protect the public health, safety, and welfare in existing buildings used for dwelling purposes. The department administrates and enforces Ordinance No. 5708, the International Property Maintenance Code of the City of Memphis Code of Ordinances. These ordinances regulate: Storage of inoperable or abandoned vehicles on a public and ...
Vacant Lot Maintenance
Memphis requires owners of vacant lots to maintain their properties free of high weeds, trash, and debris under Ordinance No. 5708 and the Memphis City Code. Grass and weeds on vacant lots must not exceed 12 inches in height. The city can mow vacant lots and charge the cost to the property owner as a lien if they fail to maintain the property after notice. The Memphis Land Bank and Blight Authority manages city-owned vacant lots for redevelopment.
Memphis Vacant Lot Maintenance Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsOrdinance No. 5708, International Property Maintenance Code of the City of Memphis Code of Ordinances (Abandoned Vehicles; Abandoned Commercial Structures)
The purpose of the Department of Housing Code Enforcement is to protect the public health, safety, and welfare in existing buildings used for dwelling purposes. The department administrates and enforces Ordinance No. 5708, the International Property Maintenance Code of the City of Memphis Code of Ordinances. These ordinances regulate: Storage of inoperable or abandoned vehicles on a public and ...
Looking for Shelby County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Memphis city rules.
Property Maintenance in Shelby County →