High Point, NC Property Maintenance: Vacant Lot Maintenance (2026)
Key Facts
- Coverage
- Vacant AND improved lots
- Citable
- High grass, weeds, trash, debris
- Timeline
- 30-60 days to correct
- Nonpayment
- Unpaid cleanup cost becomes a lien
Summary
High Point's Trash, Debris and Dilapidated Outbuildings Code (§ 9-2-218) cites vacant and improved lots alike for excess trash, debris, or high grass, weeds and undergrowth that can conceal filth or harbor vermin.
The inspector shall determine that a violation of this article exists if, based on his inspection of the premises, any one (1) or more of the following conditions are observed: (a) Trash and/or debris on the property in such quantity that it is injurious to the health, safety, or morals...(c) Property on which high grass, weeds, or undergrowth have been allowed to grow and which may conceal filthy deposits or harbor insects or vermin.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 9 | Development Ordinance: Supplement 14).
Full Breakdown
Article K applies to every property in the city, vacant or improved (§ 9-2-214), and § 9-2-218 lets the inspector cite a lot for trash or debris in an injurious quantity, prohibited materials stored outside a structure, or high grass, weeds or undergrowth that may conceal filthy deposits or harbor insects and vermin. The inspector issues a corrective order with 30 to 60 days to comply, extendable up to 90 more days for good-faith progress.
Violations & Fines
Ignoring a corrective order under § 9-2-220 is a separate offense each day it continues; the city can fine the owner, place a lien for cleanup costs, and pursue civil penalties under § 9-2-229.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the vacant-lot ordinance apply if no one lives on the property?
How long do I get to clean up a cited vacant lot?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in High Point
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