Vacant properties are not popular with municipalities. Cities create a vacant land registry to keep a running log of properties that do not host residents. Here are directions from the town of Brookhaven New York.

There is no longer a requirement to submit a notarized application or payment through the mail – it is all available online. The cost to register is $360 for the year and can be paid through our secure online platform.

Please be advised, that any owner, or agent of an owner acting on behalf of the owner, who fails to register a vacant building or to pay any fees required to be paid pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 87, within 30 days after they become due, shall constitute a violation punishable upon conviction thereof by a fine in the amount of not less than $1,000 nor more than $15,000 for each failure to register, or for each failure to pay a required vacant building registration fee.

The amount of the fine implies that full buildings are of value to the hamlet. Perhaps, in part, this is due to the services a resident will take up once they walk up their sidewalk every day to their front door. Perhaps having people come and go in the neighborhood keeps everyone more secure. Here are the benefits as expressed by the bureaucrats.

Registrant’s point of contact will be notified by phone and/or email of issues that may arise such as:

• Property maintenance (tall grass, litter on property, etc.)
• When the Town is notified by law enforcement of unauthorized occupancy
• If property becomes unsecure.

When properties are registered, the Town will have contact information and will have the opportunity to notify the owner/property manager to correct any issues before taking action. This will save the property owner money.

The city of Miami goes one step further and requires the owners post a no-tresspassing sign and authorize their police force to enter the property should a need for their services become apparent.

Install No Trespassing Sign

Once you’ve submitted your forms, you’ll need to install a No Trespassing sign on the property (this can be any sign purchased any where).

Although it may never cross your mind, your comings and goings every day in your neighborhood and place of business are a public service.