Bill > S04819

This bill proposes a new tax exemption for privately owned vacant properties in cities with populations of one million or more, allowing property owners to receive a tax break if they temporarily use their vacant land for public benefit purposes. Specifically, the property must be used for public benefit activities like open spaces, community gardens, urban farms, or pop-up parks for at least 20 hours per week during winter months (November through March) and 25 hours per week during summer months (April through October). To qualify for the exemption, the property owner cannot receive any financial profit from the land's use, ensuring that the temporary use is genuinely for community benefit. This legislation aims to incentivize property owners to transform unused vacant lots into productive community spaces in large cities, potentially helping to improve neighborhood aesthetics, provide green spaces, and support local agricultural or recreational initiatives while temporarily utilizing otherwise idle urban land.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4819