Vacant and Foreclosure Registry
The DeKalb County Foreclosure Registry and the Vacant Property Registry were established as a means to protect neighborhoods from becoming blighted through the lack of adequate maintenance and security of properties that are vacant.
Improperly maintained and unsecure vacant properties can become a hazard to the health and safety of anyone who may come on or near the property and can adversely affect the aesthetic and economic attributes of communities. Difficulties often arise in locating the person responsible for maintenance of foreclosed properties. DeKalb County finds that there is a substantial need directly related to the public health, safety and welfare to comprehensively address these concerns through the adoption of the Foreclosure Registry Ordinance as well as the Vacant Property Registry Ordinance.
Vacant Property Registry
Property owners must register with DeKalb County if their property is vacant.
- Registration deadline: Within 90 days of vacancy
- Registration fee: $100
- Requirements: Designate a local property agent and report contact information changes
- Penalties: Fines up to $1,000 per violation for non-compliance
Foreclosure Property Registry
Property owners must register foreclosed properties.
- Registration deadline: Within 120 days of foreclosure
- Registration fee: $100
- Requirements: Designate a local property agent and report contact information changes
- Penalties: Fines up to $1,000 per violation for non-compliance
- Note: Properties that are both vacant and foreclosed must register with both registries.