In December of 2015, Bellefontaine City Council adopted a Vacant Building Enforcement Program. There are a high number of vacant and/or abandoned structures within the City, and, in many cases, these properties have numerous code violations. These structures can have a significant blighting influence on the neighborhoods in which they are located. The goal of the Vacant Building Enforcement Program is to inventory the vacant structures within the City of Bellefontaine, log contact information for these structures, and to encourage their return to productive use in the community. Please use the links below to review the Vacant Building Enforcement Program ordinance, and the associated registration form.
Vacant Building Registration
Registration Fees (residential/commercial):
1st year – $200.00
2nd year – $400.00
3rd year – $800.00
4th year – $1,600.00
5th year and beyond: $3,200.00
A plan for the maintenance of the vacant building must be submitted with the registration. The plan, at a minimum, must contain one of the following:
1. DEMOLITION: If the building is to be demolished, a demolition plan indicating the proposed time frame for demolition which includes starting within thirty days of acceptance of the proposed demolition time line and does not exceed one year in accordance with the City and Ohio Building Codes.
2. SECURE VACANCY: If the building is to remain vacant, a plan for ensuring the building is secured in accordance with all applicable building and fire codes along with he procedure that will be used to maintain the property, and a statement of the reasons why the building will be left vacant (ex. the building is for sale, etc.).
3. REHABILITATION: If the building is to be returned to appropriate occupancy and use, rehabilitation plans for the building and grounds. The rehabilitation plan shall not exceed 12 months from the time the owner obtains permits, unless the Service Director grants an extension upon receipt of a written statement from the owner detailing the reasons for the extension. Any repairs, improvements or alterations to the property must comply with any applicable zoning, housing, historic preservation, or building codes, and the property must be secured during the rehabilitation.
Vacant Building Exemption
Below are the valid reasons for exemption from the Vacant Building Enforcement Program:
1. Damage to the Building (fire, vandalism, natural disaster, etc.)
2. The building is listed for sale
3. The building is listed for rent/lease
4. The building is under construction/being remodeled