Fort Wayne actively enforces property blight through Neighborhood Code Compliance under City Code Chapter 152 and Indiana Code 36-7-9 (unsafe building law). Violations include deteriorated structures, overgrown vegetation, accumulated debris, and graffiti.
Fort Wayne Neighborhood Code Compliance investigates blight complaints under City Code Chapter 152 and Indiana Code 36-7-9. Common violations include peeling paint, broken windows, sagging roofs, open cavities, overgrown grass over 9 inches, accumulated trash or debris, inoperable vehicles, and graffiti. The Unsafe Building Law (IC 36-7-9) allows the city to order repair or demolition of structures deemed unsafe. Notices of Violation typically provide 10-30 days to remedy, with daily fines up to $2,500 for continued noncompliance. Persistent blight can lead to the Unsafe Building Hearing Authority ordering repair, vacation, or demolition. The city may perform abatement (grass cutting, trash removal) and lien the property for costs. Fort Wayne operates proactive blight programs in targeted neighborhoods funded by federal CDBG dollars.
First notice typically warning. Daily fines up to $2,500 for continued violation. Unsafe buildings may be demolished with cost liened to property.
Fort Wayne, IN
Fort Wayne driveways require approach permits from Public Works. Residential driveways limited to 24 feet wide at the curb; concrete or asphalt required for ...
Fort Wayne, IN
Fort Wayne has no citywide overnight parking ban on public streets. The 72-hour consecutive parking rule applies. Snow emergency routes must be cleared after...
Fort Wayne, IN
Fort Wayne supports EV charging with over 60 public stations including city-owned chargers at Citizens Square and Parkview Field. Residential Level 2 install...
Fort Wayne, IN
Fort Wayne zoning allows RV and boat storage on residential lots only in side or rear yards, set back at least 5 feet from property lines. Front yard and dri...
Fort Wayne, IN
Fort Wayne follows IC 9-22-1 for abandoned vehicle handling. Vehicles inoperable, unregistered, or parked more than 72 hours on public streets can be tagged ...
Fort Wayne, IN
Fort Wayne has no city ordinance regulating year-round lawn ornaments, statuary, or religious displays at single-family properties. Chapter 157 sign provisio...
See how Fort Wayne's property blight rules stack up against other locations.
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