Brooklyn vacant lots must be fenced, clean, and rodent-free per NYC Admin Code §16-128 and HPD rules — violations trigger DSNY cleaning liens.
Vacant lot owners in Brooklyn must comply with NYC Admin Code §16-128 (Sanitation Code), which requires that lots be kept free of trash, weeds, rubbish, and rodent harborage. Lots must be enclosed by a fence at least 6 feet high to prevent illegal dumping. DSNY inspects complaint-driven lots; if the owner fails to remediate within 5 days of notice, DSNY performs cleaning and bills the owner — unpaid charges become tax liens. HPD has additional authority under the Housing Maintenance Code for vacant residential lots. Community Boards and local organizations may initiate adoption programs to convert vacant lots into community gardens through GreenThumb. Illegal dumping on vacant lots is a misdemeanor under §16-119 with fines up to $5,000.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Kings County code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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Kings County, NY
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Kings County, NY
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Kings County, NY
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Kings County, NY
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