The proposed bill would amend the Arizona Revised Statutes by adding a new section, 9-500.54, which empowers municipalities to create and enforce ordinances concerning the registration, inspection, and maintenance of vacant or abandoned buildings that have been unoccupied for over 150 days. This new legislation would introduce requirements for property owners to register their buildings, maintain safety and structural integrity, and provide proof of insurance, along with specific definitions and conditions for what constitutes an "abandoned" building. It would also outline the processes for inspections, notifications, and appeals, and allow municipalities to impose fees for registration and inspections. Additionally, the bill would require property owners to provide contact information for someone authorized to accept service on their behalf if they reside outside Arizona and would make them jointly liable for fees and costs associated with compliance. Municipalities would be permitted to file liens for unpaid fees and must follow specific procedures for inspections, including obtaining search warrants if necessary. The bill clarifies that municipalities are not responsible for repairs that are the owner's obligation and prohibits owners from evading compliance through property transfers to related entities. Overall, these updates aim to enhance public safety and property maintenance standards for abandoned and vacant buildings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-500.54