Vacant and Abandoned Building Registration
The City of Hattiesburg requires registration of certain vacant and abandoned structures to reduce blight, improve public safety and support neighborhood and downtown revitalization.
This page is the official starting point for property owners and residents to understand when registration is required, what must be submitted, fees, timelines and ongoing responsibilities.
This page provides a plain-language summary. The ordinance itself controls in all cases (Ordinance No. 3377).
Frequently asked questions
What is the purpose of the Vacancy Registration Ordinance?
The ordinance addresses the negative effects of chronic property vacancy, including property decay, crime and declining property values, by establishing standards and facilitating communication for vacant properties in Hattiesburg.
Which areas are affected by the ordinance?
The ordinance applies to properties in the Downtown Central Business District, designated historic districts, and designated historic landmarks. Implementation is phased in as follows:
- April 1, 2025: Downtown Central Business District and vacant historic landmarks
- July 1, 2025: North Main Historic Neighborhood
- October 1, 2025: Hattiesburg Historic Neighborhood
- January 1, 2026: Parkhaven, Newman-Buschman and The Oaks
What is a “vacant structure”?
For single-family residential properties, a structure without active utility services (water and electricity) is considered vacant.
For all other properties, a structure without a current Privilege Tax License (as applicable), and without water and electricity for 60 days, is classified as vacant.
What are the registration timelines?
Property owners must register their vacant properties within 45 days of receiving written notice.
What information is required to register?
Owners must provide:
- Property details (address, PPIN, legal description, etc.)
- Ownership and management contact information
- Proof of liability insurance (minimum $100,000) or a surety bond reviewed by the city
- A comprehensive maintenance and rehabilitation plan with anticipated timelines
- A floor plan for code enforcement and emergency response
- “No Trespass” placards for the property
How long does registration last?
Registration must be renewed annually until the property is deemed occupied and compliant with all city codes.
What are the registration and inspection fees?
- Single-family homes: $250 initial registration
- All other structures: $750 initial registration
- Annual inspection fees: $0.01 per square foot (minimum $50)
- Annual increases: Fees double each year the property remains non-compliant
Are discounts available?
Yes. If all registration paperwork is submitted within 45 days of notice, the property owner may qualify for a $100 discount.
Late submissions may incur an additional $150 penalty.
Are any properties exempt from registration?
Properties with active utility services, single-family homes that meet maintenance standards, and properties under valid building permits are exempt.
What fee waivers are available?
Fee waivers may be granted (valid for 12 months) for certain circumstances, including:
- Properties impacted by disasters (e.g., fire, flood) for up to one year
- Indigent property owners (first year only)
- Estates or properties managed due to owner incapacity or death (up to one year)
- Properties with active building permits
- Non-residential properties maintained to the required standards
What maintenance standards apply to vacant properties?
Standards include securing all entry points, preventing pest infestations, repairing structural damage, maintaining weatherproof exteriors and ensuring drainage systems are functional. Additional requirements may apply to historic properties.
What is the “comprehensive plan of action”?
This is a detailed timeline for addressing violations, completing rehabilitation, maintaining the property while vacant and outlining its future use. Updates are required every six months.
What happens if a property owner does not register?
Failure to register may result in a misdemeanor charge, with fines up to $1,000, and potential administrative or civil actions.
Will the city notify owners before taking enforcement actions?
Yes. A written notice of violation will be issued, giving property owners a reasonable timeframe to address the issue before further action.
Can property owners be criminally prosecuted?
Yes. Violations are considered strict liability offenses, meaning no proof of intent is required.
Where this ordinance applies
This registration program applies to vacant structures within the areas listed below, with phased effective dates:
- April 1, 2025: Downtown Central Business District and vacant historic landmarks
- July 1, 2025: North Main Historic Neighborhood
- October 1, 2025: Hattiesburg Historic Neighborhood
- January 1, 2026: Parkhaven, Newman-Buschman and The Oaks
“Vacant structure” is defined differently for single-family residences vs. other structures.
How to register a vacant structure
- Register within 45 days of written notice.
- Designate a local manager. The local manager must be available 24/7 and reside in Forrest or Lamar County.
- Submit required documentation. Insurance (or surety bond), floor plan, “No Trespass” placards and a comprehensive plan of action.
- Pay the required fees. Registration includes an annual registration fee and an annual inspection fee.
- Renew annually until compliant.
Reminder: Registration must be renewed annually until the property is deemed occupied and compliant with all city codes.
Fees (annual)
- Initial registration fee: $250 (single-family residential) or $750 (all other structures)
- Annual inspection fee: $0.01 per square foot (minimum $50)
- Annual increases: Registration fees double each year the property remains non-compliant
Discounts and additional fees
- $100 discount: May apply if registration paperwork is submitted in its entirety within 45 days of notice
- Additional $150 fee: May apply if registration paperwork is not submitted in its entirety within 90 days
Enforcement and penalties
The city will issue written notice of violation and provide a reasonable timeframe to address the issue before further action.
Failure to register may result in fines up to $1,000, and potential administrative or civil actions.
Where to submit your registration
Submit completed registration materials to the Department of Urban Development.
- In person: Planning Division, second floor of City Hall (200 Forrest St.)
- By mail: Attn: Planning Division, P.O. Box 1898, Hattiesburg, MS 39403