The "Section 113" Trap: Maintenance Requirements for Vacant Detroit Homes
Category: Maintenance Guide
Reading Time: 5 Minutes
If you are an investor holding land for appreciation, or if you are sitting on a "gut rehab" waiting for contractor availability, you are a target.
Code 8-15-113 is the ordinance governing the maintenance of vacant structures. It accounts for the 3rd highest volume of tickets in our database.
The Misconception: "I Boarded It Up"
Many investors believe that nailing plywood over the windows satisfies the law. It does not.
Under Section 113, a vacant property must meet standards that are almost higher than an occupied one.
The 3 Requirements of Code 8-15-113
1. The "paint" Clause You cannot leave raw plywood exposed. All boarding materials must be painted to match the color of the structure.
- Why: To reduce the visual impact of blight on the neighborhood.
- The Fine: $250.00 for "Improper Boarding."
2. The "Clear Boarding" Zones In designated historic districts or strategic neighborhood zones, plywood is strictly prohibited. You must use Clear Boarding (Polycarbonate sheets) that mimic the look of glass.
- Cost Impact: Clear boarding is 3x-4x more expensive than plywood.
- Risk: If you use plywood in a clear zone, you will be ticketed AND ordered to replace it.
3. The "Curilage" (The Yard) You are responsible for the grass, the snow, and the debris, even if no one lives there. Vacant properties are not exempt from the 8-inch grass rule. In fact, they are inspected more frequently because they are obvious targets.
The Defense: The Building Permit
The best defense against a Section 113 ticket is an active Building Permit.
- If you have a permit, the property is considered "Under Construction," not "Vacant/Blighted."
- If you do not have a permit, you are just a speculator with a boarded house.
Action Item: If your renovation is paused, check your permit status. An expired permit opens you up to immediate Section 113 enforcement.