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Lima, OH Property Maintenance: Property Blight (2026)

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

Key Facts

Governing code
Property Maintenance Code, Part 18
Nuisance defined
PMC 1802.02(EE)
Sanitation standard
PMC 1806.01
Enforcer
Community Development Code Official
Civil penalty
$350 ($50 if corrected)

Summary

Lima's Property Maintenance Code requires all exterior property be kept clean, safe and sanitary. Premises littered with rubbish or garbage, or with uncontrolled weed growth, or in dilapidation are declared public nuisances subject to abatement by the Code Official.

All exterior property and premises shall be maintained in a clean, safe, and sanitary condition. The occupant shall keep that part of the exterior property which such occupant occupies or controls in a clean, safe and sanitary condition.

Full Breakdown

Part 18 (the Property Maintenance Code, PMC) governs blight. Section 1806.01 requires exterior property and premises to be maintained in a clean, safe and sanitary condition. Section 1802.02(EE) defines a public nuisance to include any premises that is unsanitary, littered with rubbish or garbage, or has uncontrolled weed growth, and any structure in dilapidation, decay, or open/vacant/abandoned. The Director of Community Development (Code Official) enforces via written notice, correction orders, civil penalties, and cost recovery placed on the tax duplicate as a special assessment.

Violations & Fines

Escalating misdemeanors: 1st offense M-4 up to $250, rising to M-1 up to $1,000. Civil penalty of $350 (reduced to $50 if corrected in time). Separate offense each day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who enforces blight rules in Lima?
The Code Official (Director of the Department of Community Development) and property maintenance inspectors, who conduct over 11,000 inspections a year.
Can Lima charge cleanup costs to my property?
Yes. Unpaid abatement costs and fees can be certified to the Allen County Auditor and collected on the tax duplicate as a special assessment.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Lima

All Lima rules

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