Division of Records Administration

Vacant Property Registration

Vacant Property Registration

Vacant Property Registration Instructions

Step 1: Create an Account

  1. Visit the registration website.
  2. After successfully logging in, navigate to the Building and Housing section.
  3. Click on Permits and Registrations and follow the prompts to continue your application.
  4. Select Vacant Building Registration and then choose Vacant Building Registration Application to begin.
  5. Complete the basic information fields, including the applicant, local agent in charge, and property owner. These fields are mandatory and must be filled out; you cannot proceed with the application if any information is missing.

Step 2: Complete Additional Information Sections

  1. Select Building Type: Choose the appropriate type of building from the provided options.
  2. Enter the Number of Dwelling Units: Indicate the total number of dwelling units in the structure.
  3. Total Square Footage: Enter the total square footage of the property. If the property has one to three units, enter zero in this field. Note that this selection will activate cash bond requirements.

Cash Bond Requirements

Commercial and Industrial Buildings:

  • All such buildings require a cash bond.
  • For buildings up to 10,000 sq. ft.: a $5,000 bond is required.
  • For buildings over 10,000 sq. ft.: a $15,000 bond is required.

Exemptions: You may qualify for an exemption from the cash bond requirement if:

  • The property hasn’t been boarded by the City in the last 3 years.
  • No complaints have been filed in the last 3 years.
  • Permits are in place to correct violations.
  • Reasonable work is being done to resolve violations.

Bond Maintenance: If a bond is required, ensure that the designated amount is maintained in the City’s escrow account. Government entities are exempt from this requirement.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

To comply with the Vacant Property Registry, upload the following documents to the registration portal:

  1. Lien Holders: Include the names and addresses of any lien holders (if applicable).
  2. Local Agent in Charge: If you do not reside in Cuyahoga County or the surrounding area, designate a local agent responsible for the property's condition.
  3. Certificate of Good Standing: If the property is owned by an LLC, submit this certificate from the Secretary of State.
  4. Property Tax Statement: Provide documentation regarding the status of property tax payments.
  5. Governmental Entity Declaration: Complete this form if applicable.
  6. Bond Exemptions Conditions Form: Submit this form if certain conditions may exempt you from the bond requirement.

Please Note: If you do not have all the required documents, you may continue with the application and add them later. Do not create a new application. Documents can be added by entering your VPR number and selecting "Attachment" to upload the documents.

Step 4: Pay Fees

  1. After completing your application, your cart will display the total amount due for your application.
  2. A convenience fee will be added based on the amount of your transaction.
  3. Follow the prompts to complete your payment.