Bill > H0072

This bill amends several Vermont statutes to enhance municipal authority over nuisance properties containing salvage, scrap, and junk. The legislation introduces a new definition for an "unauthorized salvage yard" as a place storing or processing junk or abandoned vehicles for over 90 days without proper certification. It grants municipalities the power to adopt ordinances that extend regulatory oversight to properties constituting a public nuisance due to the accumulation of rubbish, scrap, junk, or abandoned vehicles. The bill establishes civil penalties for violations, with fines up to $800 and potential daily additional fines of $100 for non-compliance. Municipalities can now require property owners to clean up such premises and can impose liens on properties with unpaid penalties, similar to how tax liens are processed. The bill also allows municipalities to determine a property is a public nuisance if it interferes with public rights and endangers the health and safety of a considerable number of persons for 90 days or more. Importantly, the legislation requires municipalities to adopt rules defining public nuisances and provide notice to property owners before imposing penalties. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, giving local governments time to prepare and establish the necessary ordinances and procedures.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.72