Vacant Property Maintenance & Registration - Farmington Hills

Housing and Building Standards Michigan 3 Minutes Read ยท published March 08, 2026 Flag of Michigan

In Farmington Hills, Michigan, owners of long-term vacant or unoccupied properties have specific responsibilities to maintain safety, security, and neighborhood appearance. This guide summarizes the city-level maintenance and vacant-property registration framework, how enforcement works, where to find forms, and the steps owners and neighbors should take to register, comply, or report a problem. It references the municipal code and the building/code enforcement office for filing complaints and obtaining registration information.

Registering a vacant building early often avoids inspection notices and fines.

Overview of the rule

The city requires maintenance of vacant structures to prevent blight, unauthorized entry, and public-safety hazards. Owners are expected to secure buildings, maintain yards and sidewalks, and keep utilities, where required, in a safe condition. Specific registration triggers, definitions (for example, the number of days a building is considered "vacant"), and detailed obligations are set out in the city code and the Building/Code Enforcement rules. See the municipal code for the controlling ordinance and definitions: Farmington Hills Code of Ordinances[1].

Penalties & Enforcement

The municipal code and enforcement policies govern penalties for failing to register or maintain a vacant property. Specific fine amounts for registration violations, daily penalties, or structured escalation schedules are not specified on the cited page.[1] Enforcement commonly includes administrative fines, civil penalties, charges for city abatement work, and referral to district court for continued noncompliance.

  • Typical monetary remedies: administrative fines and cost-recovery for city remediation (amounts not specified on the cited page)[1].
  • Escalation: first offence, repeat offences, and continuing violations may result in higher fines or court action (detailed ranges not specified on the cited page)[1].
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to repair or secure, placarding, vacancy registration requirements, abatement, and potential seizure or court injunctions.
  • Enforcer and reporting: Code Enforcement / Building Safety handles inspections and complaints; contact the Building/Code Enforcement office to report a vacant property or request an inspection.
  • Appeals and review: the code outlines administrative appeal routes and court review; exact time limits for filing appeals are not specified on the cited page[1].
Unpaid fines or unresolved violations can lead to liens or legal actions against the property.

Applications & Forms

The city typically uses a vacant-structure registration form or similar application for owners to declare the status of a property and provide contact and maintenance plans. The official code or building department page should list the current form name and submission instructions; the specific form name and fee amounts are not specified on the cited page.[1]

How owners must comply

Owners should take proactive steps to avoid violations: secure access points, maintain exterior conditions, post contact information if required, and timely submit any registration form. If major repair or demolition is planned, obtain required permits from the Building Department.

  • Secure doors, windows, and roof to prevent trespass and water intrusion.
  • Maintain yards, remove debris, and ensure sidewalks and drainage meet city standards.
  • File any required vacant-property registration or owner-contact update with the Building/Code Enforcement office when status changes.
  • Respond promptly to inspection notices and provide remediation plans when ordered.

FAQ

Does every vacant property in Farmington Hills require registration?
Requirements depend on the ordinance definition of "vacant" and duration; check the municipal code and contact Code Enforcement for specific triggers.
How do I report an unsafe vacant building?
Report to the Building/Code Enforcement office using the city complaint or service-request procedures; see Help and Support below for contact pages.
Are there exemptions for pending sale or foreclosure?
Exemptions or limited-time allowances may apply; review the ordinance text or contact the Building Department to confirm.

How-To

  1. Determine whether your property meets the local definition of "vacant" by reviewing the municipal code or contacting Code Enforcement.
  2. Complete the vacant-property registration form if required and attach any required proof, plans, or contact information.
  3. Submit the form to the Building/Code Enforcement office by the method specified (online, mail, or in person) and retain proof of submission.
  4. Address any inspection findings or abatement orders promptly to avoid escalation; request an appeal or extension within the code timelines if available.
Keep registration records and proof of compliance to simplify appeals and title transfers.

Key Takeaways

  • Owners must secure and maintain vacant buildings to protect public safety and neighborhood character.
  • Registration and specific duties are defined in the Farmington Hills municipal code; consult Code Enforcement for forms and deadlines.
  • Failure to comply can trigger inspections, fines, abatement, and legal action.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Farmington Hills Code of Ordinances

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