Vacant properties neglected by their owners tend to attract crime and become fire hazards or dumping grounds for trash and debris. These properties are a detriment to El Paso neighborhoods and tie up an inordinate amount of city resources from police, fire, building inspection and code enforcement.

The City of El Paso recently adopted a Vacant Building Ordinance to address these blighted properties, which are public nuisance and contribute to decreased property values and quality of life.

The ordinance was adopted on Aug. 24, 2010 through a City Council amendment to Title 18 (Building and Construction). It requires that vacant buildings be maintained and secured to prevent them from falling into dilapidated, deteriorated, or hazardous conditions. Enforcement of this new ordinance became effective March 1, 2011.