HAMPTON, Va. — Hampton City Council unanimously passed a new ordinance requiring owners to register vacant buildings, partially so that they can crack down on squatting.
The ordinance mandates that all buildings that have been continuously vacant for at least a year and meet the definition of "a derelict building" be registered annually. The goal is to prevent squatting, drug activities, and other crimes in abandoned buildings.
They describe a "derelict building" as "a residential or nonresidential building or structure, whether or not construction has been completed, that might endanger the public’s health, safety, or welfare and for a continuous period in excess of six months" has been vacant, boarded up in accordance with code, and is not connected to any water or utility services.
According to the ordinance, building owners will need to pay the city an annual $100 fee to keep their vacant buildings registered. Those who fail to register will pay a $200 civil penalty.
Newport News has also expressed interest in beginning a similar program.