VACANT BUILDING REGISTRATION INFORMATION
• Vacant Building Registration City Code: DCC 10.3.3
Can be found at
https://library.municode.com/mn/duluth/codes/legislative_code
• Vacant Building Registration Process:
The applicant must submit this Vacant Building Registration Form and fees within the required
timeframe:
Residential Property- 30 days of assuming ownership of a vacant property, or within 30 days of
established vacancy.
Commercial Property- 365 days of assuming ownership of a vacant property, or within 365 days of
established vacancy.
• Annual Registration Renewal & Fee:
Registration remains valid for one year from date of registration. As long as the building remains vacant,
the owner or responsible party, must renew registration annually, and pay a registration or renewal fee
in the amount prescribed in the Vacant Building Registration Fee Schedule. Any unpaid registration
fee will be assessed to the property taxes within a calendar year of required registration.
• Changes in Information:
Within 30 days of any change in registration information, the applicant must file an amended Vacant
Building Registration Form with the Life Safety Division.
• Registration Fee Exemption for approved Restoration Agreement:
The owner may submit a Restoration Agreement form which states their intention of restoring the
property to productive use and occupancy within six months of submission. During this six month
time period, the owner is exempt from paying the registration fee, but must comply with all other
vacant building registry requirements. If the subject property is not restored to productive use and
occupancy within the six month time span, the owner is liable for any fees previously waived. The Life
Safety Division may extend the waiver of the registration fee if compelling conditions/
reasonable progress are determined. Any extension request may be denied by the Life Safety
Division.
• Required Security Measures:
1. Enclose and secure the structure as provided in the applicable Duluth City Code and maintain this
condition for duration of vacancy.
2. Ensure that the grounds of the structure, including yards, fences, sidewalks, and driveways are
well-maintained and kept free from trash or debris.
3. Ensure adequate maintenance in regards to "Good Neighbor" issues such as grass cutting and quick
response to police identified violations.