Bill > HB2716

This bill allows cities and towns in Arizona to create ordinances requiring the registration, inspection, and maintenance of residential and commercial buildings that have been vacant or abandoned for over 150 days. These ordinances must include requirements for owners to register the property, provide contact information for a local agent if they live out of state, and maintain the property in a secure, sound, and sanitary condition, including securing it from trespassers and maintaining necessary utilities for safety. Cities and towns can inspect these properties, and if an owner fails to comply or allow inspection, the city or town can obtain a search warrant. The bill also outlines a process for notifying owners of registration, inspection, and maintenance requirements, as well as any associated fees or penalties, and allows for an appeal process for owners. Fees collected from registration and inspections are to be used for public safety improvements around vacant properties, administering the program, and repairing, closing, or demolishing buildings as authorized by law. The bill defines "abandoned" as a vacant building with at least two additional conditions, such as accumulated trash, lack of furnishings, reports of illegal activity, dilapidation, disconnected utilities, discontinued construction, or unsecured windows and doors. It also clarifies that this section does not relieve owners of their responsibility for repairs and maintenance, and cities can place liens on properties to recover costs.

Government Affairs

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/84560