HB5453 - Vacant Building in Foreclosure Responsibility Act

• Owners and mortgagees of vacant buildings in foreclosure must register with their municipality or county within 30 days, with registration valid for 6 months and renewable, at a cost of $250 per registration or renewal (exempt for nonprofits and government agencies).

• Registered owners and mortgagees must designate an authorized agent within the county to receive violation notices and legal process, or notices may be posted on the building itself.

• Vacant buildings must maintain minimum standards including: grass below 10 inches, secured exterior openings, weather-tight roofs, no accumulated junk or hazards, protected foundations, drained or heated pipes, locked exit doors with deadbolts, and pest control.

• Municipalities and counties may conduct exterior and interior inspections following reasonable notice during the registration or renewal period.

• Violations are punishable by fines of $500 to $1,000 per offense, with each day of violation constituting a separate offense; home rule units may not adopt less restrictive regulations.