Memphis, TN Property Maintenance: Vacant Lot Maintenance (2026)

The purpose of the Department of Housing Code Enforcement is to protect the public health, safety, and welfare in existing buildings used for dwelling purposes. The department administrates and enforces Ordinance No. 5708, the International Property Maintenance Code of the City of Memphis Code of Ordinances. These ordinances regulate: Storage of inoperable or abandoned vehicles on a public and private property; Minimum housing standards for existing dwellings, and environmental conditions which may contribute to deterioration in the community; Abandoned commercial structures, which may contribute to deterioration in the community. Some of the common complaints reported by citizens include abandoned houses and vehicles, structural defects in dwellings, and appliances or junk stored on the property. [...] When a violation order is issued for an inoperable vehicle, a follow-up inspection is conducted in 14 calendar days. If the owner fails to repair, remove or place the vehicle in a lawful storage place after 14 calendar days, the vehicle may be impounded in the City storage lot or legal action can be taken. Impounded vehicles may be reclaimed from the City of Memphis Vehicle storage lot (636-8200) by paying the towing and storage fees