Seattle requires owners of vacant lots to maintain them free of debris, overgrowth, and nuisance conditions under the Housing and Building Maintenance Code and general nuisance provisions.
Vacant lot owners must keep their properties clear of rubbish, junk, debris, and excessive vegetation. Grass and weeds must not exceed 10 inches in height. Lots must be secured against unauthorized dumping and camping where persistent problems occur. Fencing may be required for lots that attract repeated nuisance activity. The city's code enforcement operates on a complaint-driven basis, with SDCI and the Department of Neighborhoods coordinating responses. Vacant lots adjacent to occupied properties must maintain conditions consistent with neighborhood standards. Owners are responsible for removing graffiti, litter, and unauthorized materials from their lots.
Violations may result in notices of violation, fines of up to $150 per day for ongoing conditions, and city-performed cleanup with costs billed to the property owner. Chronic nuisance conditions may trigger enforcement under SMC 10.09.
Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in King County.
See how other cities in King County handle vacant lot maintenance.
See how Seattle's vacant lot maintenance rules stack up against other locations.
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