New Rules Target Downtown Vacant Buildings

City councilor Joaquin Baca is introducing sweeping new rules to tackle downtown’s dangerous empty buildings, sparked by a recent collapse that highlighted the risks of neglected structures. Ordinance O-26-30 mandates annual registration for buildings vacant nine months or more, with fees rising from $1,000 to $5,000 based on size and duration—plus automatic top-tier fines if inspectors can’t access the property. This replaces outdated flat penalties and grants code enforcement broader powers to inspect even hidden structural issues. Designed to prevent blight, preserve historic buildings, and keep downtown safe, the plan aims to force owners to maintain their properties—or face steep financial consequences. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/73bb5838cbf20f3b