HB437 Summary

• Authorizes Class 1 municipalities to adopt vacant property registration ordinances requiring owners to register residential and commercial vacant properties within 30 days of vacancy or 10 days after municipal notice.

• Establishes registration fees not to exceed $250 annually for residential properties and $1,000 annually for commercial properties, with supplemental fees up to 10 times the initial fee amount for properties remaining vacant.

• Requires registration database creation and provides exemptions for properties advertised for sale or lease, under construction or renovation, subject to pending legal proceedings, or demonstrating intent to restore within 12 months.

• Unpaid registration fees and fines for non-compliance become liens on the property superior to all other liens except tax liens, and municipalities may enforce compliance through civil action and required property maintenance standards.

• Becomes effective October 1, 2024, and applies only to municipalities that voluntarily adopt an ordinance under the act.