New Orleans requires owners of vacant lots to maintain them free of overgrown vegetation, debris, and standing water. Given the city's mosquito concerns and flood vulnerability, vacant lot maintenance is strictly enforced. Grass and weeds must be kept below 18 inches. The Code Enforcement Division and Mosquito, Termite and Rodent Control Board monitor compliance.
Vacant lot owners must mow grass and weeds regularly to keep them below 18 inches. Standing water that could breed mosquitoes must be eliminated. Lots must be free of accumulated trash, debris, and abandoned vehicles. The city may cut grass and clean vacant lots without prior notice after initial violation and charge costs to the property owner.
Violations result in fines, city-performed maintenance charged to the owner, and liens against the property. Chronic violations may lead to expropriation proceedings through NORA.
New Orleans, LA
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See how New Orleans's vacant lot maintenance rules stack up against other locations.
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