Process and eligibility
The inspection and cleanup process may take up to 90 days.
1
Request a cleanup
Residents can request a vacant lot cleanup through Philly311.
2
Inspection
An inspector will visit the vacant lot to see if it’s up to Philadelphia Code. The inspector will take photos and decide if the lot violates the City’s property maintenance laws.
3
Warning notice
If there’s a violation, the inspector will issue a Notice of Violation. The property owner must fix the issue by a certain date before the inspector returns.
4
City cleanup
If the owner doesn’t correct the violation, City crews will clean up the vacant lot and then send the owner a bill. Unpaid bills will result in the City placing a lien against the property, meaning the City can legally claim the lot until the owner pays.
The inspection and cleanup process may take up to 90 days.
1
Request a cleanup
Residents can request a vacant lot cleanup through Philly311.
2
Inspection
An inspector will visit the vacant lot to see if it’s up to Philadelphia Code. The inspector will take photos and decide if the lot violates the City’s property maintenance laws.
3
Warning notice
If there’s a violation, the inspector will issue a Notice of Violation. The property owner must fix the issue by a certain date before the inspector returns.
4
City cleanup
If the owner doesn’t correct the violation, City crews will clean up the vacant lot and then send the owner a bill. Unpaid bills will result in the City placing a lien against the property, meaning the City can legally claim the lot until the owner pays.