Gilbert, AZ Property Maintenance: Property Blight (2026)

Section 42-316 applies to every structure and building in the town. Subsection (b) requires exposed exterior surfaces, windows and doors to be maintained free of deterioration that threatens health and safety, is impervious to moisture, or otherwise presents a 'deteriorated or blighted appearance,' and lists concrete examples: improperly anchored canopies or awnings, structurally unsafe chimneys, broken or cracked windows and doors that aren't weathertight, peeling or blistering paint, deteriorated window screening, and boarded openings on an occupied structure. An unoccupied structure whose openings have been boarded for more than 90 days must instead use polycarbonate securement visible from the street.

Subsection (c) extends the same standard to fences, screen walls and retaining walls, which must be safe, structurally sound and free of leaning, missing slats, rot or graffiti. Subsection (f) covers foundations, exterior walls and roofs, each of which must be structurally sound, weathertight and free from deterioration. The definitions section, § 42-315, defines 'blight or blighted' to include accumulated debris, deteriorating fences, dead or unmaintained landscaping, and tarps or plastic sheeting used as fencing or screening. Enforcement follows the abatement procedure in § 42-311: the town issues a written notice to abate giving the owner, occupant or person in control 30 days to correct the violation, and the owner may appeal the abatement order in writing to the town council within 15 days of the notice.

If the violation isn't corrected, the town may abate it directly, assess the cost plus five percent to the owner, and record a lien against the property under § 42-329.