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Wichita Falls, TX Property Maintenance: Property Blight (2026)

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

Key Facts

Governing law
City Code § 22-601 to § 22-608
Damage threshold
33% supporting members or 50% walls
Demolition threshold
50%+ damage/deterioration
Enforcement
Building Commission (city council)
Penalty
Fine per § 1-14, per-day violation

Summary

Wichita Falls declares any dangerous or dilapidated building a public nuisance and can order it repaired, vacated, or demolished.

All dangerous buildings and structures within the terms of section 22-601 are declared to be public nuisances and shall be vacated and repaired or demolished as provided in this article.

View official code

Full Breakdown

Under City Code § 22-601, a building counts as "dangerous" if it has 33% or more damage to supporting members, is fire-damaged, unfit for habitation, or lacks adequate egress, among other listed defects. Section 22-602 declares every such building a public nuisance. The Building Commission (city council) then orders repair, vacation, or demolition under § 22-603 standards, and the building official can post a public notice on the structure identifying it as dangerous.

Violations & Fines

Owner or occupant noncompliance with a repair/vacate/demolish order is a fineable offense under § 1-14, with each day of continued violation a separate offense.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a building "dangerous" in Wichita Falls?
Under § 22-601, defects like 33%+ structural damage, fire damage, inadequate egress, or unfit-for-habitation conditions qualify a building as dangerous.
Can the city force demolition?
Yes. Under § 22-603, a building 50% or more damaged or deteriorated, or one that cannot be repaired into compliance, must be demolished.
Can I sell a property after receiving a dangerous-building notice?
Only if you disclose the notice to the buyer and notify code enforcement of the transaction first, per § 22-608.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Wichita Falls

Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Decibel LimitsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Vehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesLight RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome Restrictions

All Wichita Falls rules

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