Property Maintenance Requirements

Attractive neighborhoods and well-kept business properties enrich the quality of life for all who live, work, and visit Dearborn. City ordinances support efforts to ensure Dearborn neighborhoods, homes, and businesses are well-kept. The City of Dearborn’s Neighborhood Services division under the Economic Development Department helps oversee all necessary regulations.

See more about the new rules for abating property issues in 2025.

Dearborn sets new rules for abating property maintenance issues

Starting April 1, 2025, the City of Dearborn will begin enforcing new abatement rules for property maintenance issues, such as tall grass and weeds and property repair and cleanliness violations.

Upon receiving a notice of violation, property owners and occupants will have a reasonable time frame to address issues. However, unlike last year, they will now be required to contact the City via email, phone, or through a QR code and form link provided on the notice of abatement. Property owners will be asked to send a photo or other proof that the issue has been resolved in a timely manner.

Failure to resolve the issue or turn in this proof before the deadline will result in a service charge of 50 percent of the abatement cost to the City, not exceeding $1000, and an administrative fee. These charges will help cover administrative costs associated with mobilizing contractors or staff to abate the issue.

Code@Dearborn.gov

313-943-2150

Video: 2025 Abatement Rules

Property Maintenance Guidelines

Some notable property maintenance requirements include:

Grass and weeds must be cut regularly to stay at a height of 6 inches or less.

Snow must be removed from the sidewalk adjacent to a property within 24 hours of a significant snowfall to allow pedestrians safe passage.

The accumulation of trash and rubbish including motor vehicle parts, appliances stored outside, wood, metal, interior furniture stored outside, litter, and yard waste including leaves and debris is prohibited.

Residential motor vehicles must be operable and properly parked in a driveway or garage. Recreational vehicles, trailers, towable vehicles and commercial vehicles cannot be stored in residential districts

Yards must be kept clean of yard, animal, and junk waste. Do not leave pet food outside or put any food on the ground intended to feed animals.

Download the Property Maintenance Guidelines for more information about complying with the City’s property maintenance requirements.

Property Maintenance Guidelines

Appeal Property Maintenance Invoice

If an ordinance violation is found, a Notice of Violation will be issued to the property owner for correction. If the violation(s) are not corrected, an abatement may be performed and/or a ticket may be issued. An invoice will be sent to the property owner if applicable.

Property owners who wish to dispute an invoice for services performed by the City can complete the Property Maintenance Appeals Application.

To report an ordinance violation, call 313-943-2150.

Property Maintenance Appeals Application