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Fort Worth, TX Property Maintenance: Property Blight (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Code Sections
Chapter 10 (Housing) and Ch. 7½ (Building Standards)
Commission
Building Standards Commission holds hearings
Remedies
Repair orders, demolition, liens on property
Reporting
Call 817-392-1234 or use myFW app
Program
Neighborhood Improvement Program

Summary

Fort Worth aggressively enforces property maintenance standards through Code Compliance. Chapter 10 of the Code of Ordinances (Housing Standards) and Chapter 7½ (Building Standards) address substandard buildings and property blight. Properties with accumulated rubbish, junk vehicles, tall weeds, or deteriorated structures can be cited. The Building Standards Commission holds hearings on substandard properties and can order repairs, demolition, or impose liens. Fort Worth's Neighborhood Improvement Program targets blighted areas with concentrated enforcement.

Sec. 343.011. PUBLIC NUISANCE. ... (c) A public nuisance is:(1) keeping, storing, or accumulating refuse on premises in a neighborhood unless the refuse is entirely contained in a closed receptacle;(2) keeping, storing, or accumulating rubbish, including newspapers, abandoned vehicles, refrigerators, stoves, furniture, tires, and cans, on premises in a neighborhood or within 300 feet of a public street for 10 days or more, unless the rubbish or object is completely enclosed in a building or is not visible from a public street; ...

Source: Fort Worth Code Compliance - EnforcementView official code

Full Breakdown

Fort Worth property maintenance codes address conditions that create blight and reduce neighborhood property values. Common violations include peeling or deteriorating exterior paint, broken or boarded windows, accumulated junk or debris, overgrown vegetation, damaged roofing, and non-functioning vehicles. Vacant and abandoned properties may be subject to vacant property registration requirements. The municipality may abate nuisance conditions and charge the property owner.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I report a blighted property in Fort Worth?
Contact Code Compliance at 817-392-1234 or use the myFW mobile app to report property blight. Inspectors will investigate and issue violation notices if warranted.
What happens if a property owner ignores blight citations?
Cases escalate to the Building Standards Commission which can order repairs, authorize demolition, or place liens on the property. The city may also perform cleanup and bill the owner.

Sources & Official References

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