Spokane Municipal Code

Title 10 Regulation of Activities

Division V. Code Enforcement and Animal Regulations

Chapter 10.63 Property Maintenance and Use Standards

Section 10.63.080 Vacant Buildings and Properties

 

1. Vacant buildings and properties shall be monitored and maintained to deter unauthorized access and occupancy.

2. The owner or responsible party of vacant buildings and properties shall take all actions necessary to prevent the appearance that the property is abandoned or vacant including but not limited to:

1. 1. maintaining and keeping the property free of conditions including, but not limited to:

1. 1. 1. weeds, dry brush, dead vegetation, trash, junk, debris, building materials and junk vehicles;

1. 1. 2. accumulation of newspapers, circulars, flyers, notices (except those required by federal, state, or local law), and discarded personal items including, but not limited to, furniture, clothing, or large and small appliances; and

1. 1. 3. graffiti, tagging, or similar markings by removal or painting over with an exterior grade paint that matches and/or coordinates with the color of the exterior of the structure.

1. 2. securing ponds, pools, and hot tubs, and ensuring that they do not become a public nuisance or danger to the public; and

1. 3. securing the property to prevent access by unauthorized persons, including, but not limited to, the following: the closure and locking of windows, doors (walk-through, sliding, and garage), gates, and any other opening of such size that it may allow a child or any other person to access the interior of the property and or structure(s). Securing also includes boarding as applicable. The preferred material for boarding shall be painted with an exterior grade paint that matches and/or coordinates with the color of the exterior of the structure or is of a material that mimics glazed windows and intact doors.

3. The code compliance officer may require the responsible party of a property subject to this section to implement additional maintenance or security measures, including securing all doors, windows, or other openings, installing additional security lighting, increasing on-site inspection frequency, employing an on-site security guard, disconnecting utilities, or any other measures as may be reasonably calculated to arrest the decline of the property, prevent unauthorized entry, or ensure maintenance of the property in accordance with this section.

4. The code compliance officer shall notify the responsible party at least ten (10) days prior to the City taking abatement action in order to allow the responsible party to abate the condition first unless such abatement constitutes an emergency, in which case, the City may abate the emergency immediately.

5. The cost of the abatement of any of the conditions outlined in this section shall be charged against the property pursuant to SMC 08.02.067 and shall be lienable pursuant to SMC 17F.070.500 and other applicable sections of the municipal code pursuant to state law.

 

Date Passed: Monday, July 14, 2025

Effective Date: Wednesday, August 20, 2025

ORD C36701 Section 1