Renton, WA Property Maintenance: Vacant Lot Maintenance (2026)

Renton Municipal Code Title 1 Chapter 3 and associated property maintenance provisions require owners of vacant lots to keep properties free from weeds, grass, and brush exceeding 12 inches in height; trash, debris, and discarded materials; dead or diseased trees that threaten adjacent properties; and standing water that could breed mosquitoes. Vacant lots must not become attractive nuisances for children, including removal of abandoned appliances, open wells or excavations, and unsecured structures. At street corners, vegetation must be trimmed to maintain clear sight triangles for traffic safety per the engineering design standards. Lots adjacent to developed properties must be maintained to a standard consistent with surrounding improvements. If a property owner fails to maintain a vacant lot after receiving a Notice and Order, the city may contract abatement services to mow and clean the property and bill the owner, with unpaid costs becoming a lien on the property. Vacant buildings require separate boarding and securing per vacant building registration requirements.