D.C. Code § 42-3131.05b: Determination of vacancy and blight.

(a)

When making a determination that a building is vacant, the Mayor shall consider the following:

(1)

Neighbor complaints;

(2)

Advisory Neighborhood Commission certification;

(3)

Accumulated mail, fliers, or newspapers;

(4)

Past due utility notices, disconnected utilities, or low utility usage inconsistent with regular and habitual occupancy;

(5)

Presence of overgrown vegetation, dead or diseased trees, or noxious weeds;

(6)

Absence of furnishings or personal items consistent with habitation;

(7)

Building is open to casual entry or trespass; and

(8)

Any other criteria the Mayor deems relevant.

(b)

When making a determination that a vacant building is a blighted vacant building, the Mayor shall consider the following:

(1)

Incidence of illegal activity, as documented by police reports;

(2)

Whether the vacant building is the subject of a condemnation proceeding before the Board for the Condemnation of Insanitary Buildings;

(3)

Referrals to the Department of Buildings from other District agencies;

(4)

One or more windows, doors, or other means of entry are missing or boarded up;

(5)

Collapsing, missing, or deteriorating walls, roof, stairs, porches, balconies, chimneys, and other building elements;

(6)

Siding or exterior walls that are seriously damaged, missing, or deteriorating;

(7)

Trash and debris are improperly stored or accumulated on the premises;

(8)

Building shows visible signs of vandalism, such as graffiti;

(9)

Presence of mold, algae, abandoned or wild animals, or insect or pest infestation; and

(10)

Any other criteria the Mayor deems relevant.