Rapides Parish, LA Property Maintenance: Property Blight (2026)

Chapter 8¼ puts condemnation authority for unsafe, unsightly structures under the parish public works director, per a 1985 police jury motion referenced in the chapter's editor's note, and cross-references the public works director's office at § 2-20 and the general building code at Chapter 6½. Section 8¼-1 lets the jury condemn and order demolished or removed any building or structure outside incorporated municipalities that is dilapidated and dangerous and endangers public health or welfare. Before condemning anything, § 8¼-2 requires a written report from a parish official recommending demolition, followed by notice to the owner served at least 10 days before a jury hearing, by registered or certified mail to the owner's last known address, or by a sheriff, deputy or constable; in a grave public emergency posing immediate danger to persons or property, the jury may condemn on just 24 hours' notice, which can be posted on the building's door.

After the hearing, § 8¼-3 lets the jury order demolition or removal by a set deadline, or grant the owner the option to make specified repairs instead; that written decision is final unless appealed within 5 days, or within 24 hours for an emergency condemnation. Section 8¼-4 lets the owner, occupant or agent appeal to the Ninth Judicial District Court, tried de novo, with either side able to appeal the district court's judgment further. If the owner does not comply or appeal in time, § 8¼-5 lets the jury demolish the structure itself without liability for damages, after serving notice of when the work will begin.

Under § 8¼-6, the jury recovers its demolition costs plus court costs as a lien and privilege recorded against the property in the parish's mortgage records.