Lima, OH Property Maintenance: Vacant Lot Maintenance (2026)
Key Facts
- Vacant-structure closing
- PMC 1816.04
- Specified parcels
- PMC 1804.39
- Vacancy trigger
- 30+ days unoccupied
- Repeat-violation trigger
- 2 abatements in 12 months
- Annual assessment fee
- $205
Summary
Lima can post, close and secure vacant or unsecured structures as public nuisances. Chronically neglected vacant parcels are placed on a Specified Parcel List for seasonal cutting, junk removal and boarding-up, with costs assessed to the owner.
If a structure is vacant and unsecured, or unfit for human habitation and occupancy, and is not in danger of structural collapse, the Code Official is authorized to post a placard of condemnation on the premises and order the structure closed up so as not to be an attractive nuisance.
Full Breakdown
PMC Section 1816.04 lets the Code Official post a condemnation placard and order a vacant, unsecured or uninhabitable structure closed; if it poses immediate danger the City may secure it without prior notice. No structure may stay boarded up longer than six months. Section 1804.39 creates 'specified parcels': parcels vacant 30+ days that have had junk (1806.08), weeds (1806.09) or unsecured-structure (1816.04) violations abated twice in twelve months. These are declared public nuisances, published each April, and subject to seasonal cutting, junk removal and boarding until transferred to a compliant owner.
Violations & Fines
Special-assessment administrative fee of $205 annually for specified-parcel status, plus publication and abatement costs, collectible on the tax duplicate. PMC misdemeanor penalties also apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a Lima property stay boarded up?
What is a specified parcel?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lima
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