Bill > HB315

This bill authorizes Class 1 municipalities, which are the largest cities in Alabama, to create programs for registering vacant properties. The legislation aims to address the problems caused by vacant properties, such as blight, criminal activity, and decreased property values, by allowing these municipalities to identify owners, collect fees to cover the costs associated with managing these properties, and encourage their rehabilitation or occupancy. The bill defines "vacant" as a property lacking habitual human presence for 90 consecutive days and outlines what constitutes "evidence of vacancy," such as overgrown vegetation or visible deterioration. It also defines "owner" broadly to include those with legal title or control over the property. Under this bill, owners of vacant properties would be required to register them within 30 days of the property becoming vacant or upon acquiring ownership, providing contact information and details about the property. Municipalities can charge annual registration fees, with higher fees for commercial properties, and may also impose supplemental fees. The bill includes various exemptions from registration and fees for situations like properties being advertised for sale, undergoing renovation, or subject to legal proceedings, and allows for case-by-case exemptions for good cause. It also requires owners who live out of state to designate a local agent for receiving notices and service of process. The bill further stipulates that subsequent owners inherit registration obligations, that properties are removed from the database once occupied, and that owners have rights to notice and appeal. Municipalities can inspect vacant properties, impose fines for non-compliance, and collect unpaid fees and fines through liens on the property, which would take precedence over most other liens. The bill also allows municipalities to secure and maintain vacant properties if owners fail to do so, with costs recoverable from the owner.

Government Affairs

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