Spokane Council Passes Chronic Nuisance Properties Ordinance

Spokane’s updated nuisance rules will put greater pressure on property owners to correct problems on their land. The measure increases penalties, establishes firmer timelines and is intended to give owners a stronger incentive to cooperate with the city and enter agreements addressing nuisance activity.

Council Member Paul Dillon said the changes followed discussions involving local residents, businesses and the Spokane Police Department. The revised code provides more precise legal language and deadlines, allowing the city to hold owners responsible and seek faster corrections. Dillon also said owners are not expected to solve every citywide issue, while emphasizing the need for defined standards when nuisance activity causes harm.

Council Member Kate Telis said neighborhoods should not endure months of disruption before the city responds. Beyond penalties and timelines, the ordinance spells out the process for notifying an owner that a property is considered a nuisance. It also covers penalties for obstructing a city worker performing official duties. The new rules become effective January 1, 2027, unless Section 19 of the City Charter sets a later date.