What is a Vacant Property?	What Is a Blighted Property?
“Vacant building” means a property that has not been occupied continuously. However, a  residential building is only deemed vacant if it is determined that there is no intent for a resident to return and occupy the building. (D.C. Official Code § 42–3131.05 (5))	A blighted vacant building is one determined to be unsafe, insanitary or otherwise threatens the health, safety, or general welfare of the community. (D.C. Official Code § 42-3131.05 (1) (A))

 

Do You Have a Certificate of Occupancy?

• A Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) ensures that the use of a building, structure, or land in the District conforms to the Zoning Regulations (DCMR Title 11), the DC Construction Codes, and the Green Building Act.
• In most cases, a person cannot use a building, structure, or land in the District for anything other than a single-family dwelling until a valid C of O has been issued.
• There are six types of C of O applications; for more information, please visit our C of O process page.
• All C of O applications must be processed through our digital platform, Certifi.
   

Are You Currently Undergoing Construction or Renovations?

Find building permits, applications, invoices, plans, or C of O permits with DOB's eRecords Management system.

eRecords 

 

Apply and Pay for Construction Permits Online

Commercial projects, solar, demolition, razes, and after-hours permits are processed through the Citizen Access Portal.

For one and two-family residential projects, use the DOB Permit Wizard for your online permit application. 

 

If You Believe Your Property Is Occupied, Please Request an Occupancy Inspection

 

How Can I Register My Vacant or Blighted Property?

Vacant Property Registration

• Create a Citizen Access Portal account using Access DC.
• Register with Vacant Building Enforcement.
• Select Online application.
• Click Building20 arrow and select “Vacant Property Registration.”
• Continue filling out the required information. Make sure Under Step 2 that Vacant is selected.
• Complete the payment process via our online payment portal.

Blighted Property Registration

Note: Blighted properties (Class 4 under DC Code) are not eligible for exemptions)

• Fill Out the Blighted Building Response Form.
• Complete the payment process via our online payment portal.

Vacant Building Exemption

Vacant properties may be eligible for a limited exemption from the Class 3 property tax rate (which is significantly higher than for occupied and/or exempted properties):

• Requires substantial documentation and evidence.
• Vacant status remains.
• Exemptions are reviewed annually to confirm eligibility.
• Once the exemption expires, higher tax rate applies.
• Can be withdrawn at any time and cannot exceed five years in any 12-year period.

Exemption eligibility provisions were recently changed under a new law. Learn more here: Vacant Building Exemption Flyer.