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San Francisco, CA Property Maintenance: Property Blight (2026)

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

Key Facts

Enforcement
DBI and DPH respond to complaints
Graffiti
Must remove within 30 days of notice
Vacant Buildings
Registration and securing required
Penalties
$250-$1,000/day for serious violations
Code
SF Housing Code, Building Code, Health Code

Summary

San Francisco actively enforces property maintenance standards through the Housing Code, Building Code, and Health Code. Blighted properties with peeling paint, broken windows, overgrown vegetation, graffiti, or accumulated debris face code enforcement action from DBI and DPH.

22660. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a city, county, or city and county may adopt an ordinance establishing procedures for the abatement and removal, as public nuisances, of abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative vehicles or parts thereof from private or public property, and for the recovery, pursuant to Section 25845 or 38773.5 of the Government Code, or assumption by the local authority, of costs of administration and the removal.

Source: SF Housing CodeView official code

Full Breakdown

The Housing Code requires all residential buildings to be maintained in a safe, clean, and sanitary condition. The Existing Building Code addresses structural maintenance. DBI responds to complaints about exterior deterioration, broken or boarded windows, and hazardous conditions. The city also has an aggressive graffiti abatement program requiring property owners to remove graffiti within 30 days of notification. Vacant buildings must be registered and secured against unauthorized entry.

Violations & Fines

Code enforcement begins with a Notice of Violation requiring correction within a specified timeframe. Failure to comply can result in administrative penalties, abatement proceedings, and liens against the property. Fines range from $250 to $1,000 per day for serious violations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I report a blighted property?
Contact DBI or use SF311 to report property maintenance concerns. The city responds to complaints about deteriorated buildings, overgrown lots, and unsanitary conditions.
What are the graffiti removal requirements?
Property owners must remove graffiti within 30 days of notification from the city. The city has a graffiti abatement program to assist with removal.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in San Francisco

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsSnow & Sidewalk ClearingSome RestrictionsVacant Lot MaintenanceSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Curb Color RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSome Restrictions

All San Francisco rules

California rules heatmap·Compare San Francisco to another location·View the California property maintenance overview

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