Property Blight: White Plains vs Yonkers

Can the City paint my house and bill me?

For unabated violations, the City can contract abatement (graffiti, debris, tall grass) and place a lien for the cost plus administrative fees.

How fast must I remove graffiti in White Plains?

Within 15 days of notice. White Plains Ch. 5-7 and the NYS Property Maintenance Code require owners to remove graffiti, with active downtown enforcement near commercial corridors.

What is the White Plains vacant building registry?

Vacant or blighted buildings may be placed on a registry with higher fees to fund enforcement. This complements the Ch. 5-7 requirements for maintained facades, window glazing, gutters, steps, and yards.

What happens with abandoned buildings in Yonkers?

Owners must register with the Vacant Building Registry, file a securing plan, and maintain the property; the city will secure and lien if they fail.

Who handles blight complaints in Yonkers?

Housing Code Enforcement at the Yonkers Department of Housing and Buildings (DHB) handles blight, unsafe structures, and vacant building enforcement under the NY Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code.

Can Yonkers charge owners for cleaning up blighted property?

Yes. The City Maintenance Division may clean and secure abandoned properties and lien the costs back to the owner under the Housing and Building Maintenance Code.