Tempe requires vacant lot owners to maintain their properties free of weeds, debris, and hazardous conditions. Vacant lots must be kept clear of accumulated junk, overgrown vegetation, and illegal dumping. The city may abate hazardous conditions at the owner's expense. Vacant lots near ASU and in redevelopment areas are common enforcement targets.
Vacant lots in Tempe must be maintained to prevent blight, fire hazards, and nuisance conditions. Property owners are responsible for keeping vacant lots free of overgrown weeds, accumulated debris, illegal dumping, and hazardous conditions. Fencing may be required for vacant lots in certain areas to prevent unauthorized access and dumping. The city's Code Compliance program monitors vacant lots and responds to community complaints. After notice of violation, owners have a specified period to correct the condition. If not corrected, the city may abate the hazard at the owner's expense and place a lien on the property. Tempe has numerous vacant lots in transition areas near downtown and the light rail corridor that are subject to ongoing monitoring. Vacant lot maintenance is particularly important during weed growth seasons (post-monsoon and post-winter rains). Mosquito breeding in standing water on vacant lots is an additional health concern addressed by the city.
Vacant lot violations result in notice, followed by fines and potential city abatement at the owner's expense with property lien.
Tempe, AZ
Tempe regulates industrial noise through Chapter 20 (Noise) of the City Code and the Zoning and Development Code. Industrial uses must not generate noise exc...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe addresses barking dogs under both the noise ordinance (Chapter 20) and animal control regulations. Dogs that bark persistently and disturb neighbors ca...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe requires vehicles to park on approved hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt driveways. Parking on dirt, gravel, or landscaped areas is prohibited. ...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe generally does not require a building permit for standard residential fences up to 6 feet in height. Fences exceeding 6 feet, masonry walls, and fences...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe's Zoning and Development Code regulates fence materials in residential zones. Common permitted materials include block, stucco, wrought iron, wood, vin...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe's zoning code limits residential fence heights to 6 feet in side and rear yards and 3 feet in front yards. Corner lots may have additional visibility t...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle vacant lot maintenance.
See how Tempe's vacant lot maintenance rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.