25-054
LEGAL NOTICE
25-054
CITY OF MEDFORD
CHAPTER 10, ARTICLE II
VACANT BUILDING
ORDINANCE
This ordinance establishes a system for registering, monitoring, and maintaining vacant and foreclosing commercial and industrial properties in Medford. Its purpose is to reduce light, safety risks, and economic harm while preserving neighborhood conditions and protecting city resources.
Property owners must register qualifying vacant or foreclosing properties, provide contact and management information, and keep properties secure and properly maintained. The ordinance imposes annual registration fees that increase over time, with limited waiver options for hardship, public art, community use, active redevelopment, or documented efforts to lease or sell.
The City is authorized to inspect properties, enforce compliance, and issue penalties for violations, including fines and a possible lien. Owners also have the right to appeal enforcement decisions. Overall, the ordinance is designed to encourage responsible property stewardship and faster reuse of long-term vacant spaces.
This Ordinance will be heard for Third reading before the City Council on July 14th, 2026, at 7:00 PM at Medford City Hall, 2nd floor Howard Alden Memorial Chambers, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, MA 02155. A zoom link and agenda will be posted no later than Friday July 10th, 2026, before the said meeting.
The full text of the proposed ordinance may be viewed in the Office of the City Clerk (Medford City Hall, Room 103, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, MA 02155).
Interested parties may contact the City Clerk’s Office at 781-393-2425 to obtain a copy of the proposed ordinance.
By Order of the City Council.
Richard Eliseo Jr
Acting City Clerk
#12418907
Transcript & Journal 6/25, 7/2/26