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. (DC 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. (DC Official Code § 42-3131.05 (1) (A))

 

Report Vacant/Blighted Property 

 

Determining a Property Is Vacant

A residential building is only deemed vacant if a determination is made that there is no intent for a resident to return and occupy the building (DC Code § 42-3131.05). The following is considered in determining whether there is a resident:

• Electrical, gas, or water meter either not running or showing low usage;
• Accumulated mail;
• Neighbor complaint;
• No window covering;
• No furniture observable;
• Open accessibility;
• Deferred maintenance, including loose or falling gutters, severe paint chipping, or overgrown grass; and
• The dwelling is boarded up.

Vacant and blighted unoccupied properties for 90 days or more (as defined by the District of Columbia’s Title 42. Real Property) must be registered.

Considerations In Determining a Property Is Blighted

The following is considered in determining that a vacant building is also blighted (DC Code § 42-3131.05):

• It is the subject of a condemnation proceeding before the Board of Condemnation and Insanitary Buildings (BCIB);
• It is boarded up; and
• It fails to comply with the following vacant building maintenance standards:
  • Doors, windows, areaways, and other openings are weather-tight and secured against entry by birds, vermin, and trespassers, and missing or broken doors, windows, and other openings are covered;
  • The exterior walls are free of holes, breaks, graffiti, and loose or rotting materials, and exposed metal and wood surfaces are protected from the elements and against decay or rust by periodic application of weather-coating materials, such as paint; or
  • All balconies, porches, canopies, marquees, signs, metal awnings, stairways, accessory and appurtenant structures, and similar features are safe and sound, and exposed metal and wood surfaces are protected from the elements by application of weather-coating materials, such as paint.

Exemptions from Higher Property Taxes

Vacant building exemption eligibility provisions were recently changed under a new law, effective on or after October 1, 2025. More details are in this Vacant Building Exemption Flyer.

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

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