Vacant Property Registration

Vacant and abandoned properties – whether residential, commercial, or industrial – can become a source of blight if not properly maintained. Unmaintained buildings may attract vandalism, unauthorized activity, and general deterioration, impacting the surrounding neighborhood and property values.

To help preserve community safety, maintain neighborhood appearance, and support the City's economic vitality, the City of Westminster will begin enforcing its Vacant Property Registration Program effective August 1, 2026.

Owners of vacant properties are required to register their property within 30 days of receiving written notice from the City regarding the program requirements.

For complete details, please refer to Ordinance No. 2638.

Example of “Kentucky Style” fencing*

*If you have any questions regarding fencing, please contact the Code Enforcement Manager at (714) 548-3246 or codeenforcement@westminster-ca.gov.

Why Registration Is Required

Registration allows the city to:

• Monitor vacant properties.
• Ensure the properties remain secure and maintained.
• Partner with property owners to prevent nuisance conditions.

This requirement applies to:

• Property owners
• Beneficiaries or trustees

Registration Details

• The Vacant Property Registration Form can be found here and must be completed and submitted to Code Enforcement at codeenforcement@westminster-ca.gov.
• Annual Registration Fee: $500.00
• Registration Validity: Valid for the calendar year, or remaining portion of the calendar year, in which the registration was initially required.
• Renewal Deadline: Subsequent registrations and fees are due by January 31 of each year.

Submission and Payment Instructions

• Submit this form along with the $500.00 annual registration fee to:
  City of Westminster
  Code Enforcement Division
  8200 Westminster Blvd
  Westminster, CA 92683
• Payment can be made via check or money order payable to “City of Westminster”
• Annual Registration Renewal Date: January 1st of each year
• Fee Due Date: No later than January 31st each year
• The registration and related fee shall be valid for the calendar year, or the remaining portion of the calendar year, in which registration was required. The registration fee shall not be prorated.
• For any inquiries of further assistance, please contact Code Enforcement via email at codeenforcement@westminster-ca.gov or by phone at (714) 548-3246.

Additional Resources

How does a vacant building or property impact the City of Westminster? Many think it’s okay to leave a building vacant. It is not.

Here are eight compelling reasons why property owners should not be permitted to maintain vacant buildings indefinitely. Cities often address this through proactive work with each owner, vacancy taxes, vacant building registrations, mandatory occupancy timelines, or rehabilitation requirements.

View the reason sheet (PDF)

Registration Forms

Vacant Property Registration Form (PDF)

If you need assistance or have any further questions, please contact Code Enforcement at codeenforcement@westminster-ca.gov or (714) 548-3246.