Newport News Council Addresses Unsafe Structures, Blight and Debris
Three code updates passed unanimously; changes take effect between August and October
At its August 12, 2025 meeting, Newport News City Council unanimously adopted three ordinances amending and reordaining portions of the city code. The revisions expand enforcement authority and bring local rules into closer alignment with state law.
Unsafe Structures Ordinance — Effective Immediately
Section 13-28 of the city code was amended and reordained to clarify procedures for handling unsafe structures. Owners must now be notified both by certified mail and through two consecutive newspaper publications before the city may intervene.
If an owner fails to take corrective action, the city may repair or secure the property and recover costs through a lien. This amendment took effect immediately upon adoption.
Derelict Buildings and Spot Blight Abatement — Effective October 1, 2025
Council amended and reordained the code to add provisions addressing derelict and long-vacant properties. Property owners may be required to submit work plans for rehabilitation or demolition, with access to expedited permitting and potential fee refunds for compliance.
The ordinance also establishes incentives such as tax abatements for completed improvements, and it authorizes council to approve “spot blight abatement” efforts that may involve repair, demolition, or acquisition of hazardous structures.
Debris and Clutter Ordinance — Effective October 1, 2025
A separate ordinance was amended and reordained to expand nuisance rules. The definition of “clutter” now includes mechanical equipment, furniture, containers, and similar items left outdoors in public view for more than 30 days. Simply covering such items does not meet compliance requirements.
If property owners fail to act after notice, the city may remove the clutter, assess costs plus a $150 administrative fee, and recover the expense through a lien or property tax bill.
Next Steps
Officials said the amended ordinances provide updated enforcement tools and incentives for property owners to address unsafe and deteriorating buildings. Collectively, the changes aim to improve neighborhood conditions and bring city code provisions into full compliance with Virginia law.
A Newport News Daily contributor used AI tools and these sources: