Removing vacant, blighted, and abandoned properties is a core part of Toledo’s beautification program. It directly improves neighborhood safety, stabilizes property values, and enhances quality of life.
Demolition makes way for new opportunities: vacant land can be purchased by neighbors, turned into greenspace, or assembled for future development.
Start to Finish
How Abandoned Properties Get Demolished
Have you ever wondered what happens when the City of Toledo decides a vacant and unsafe building needs to be demolished? Our demolition program coordinator walks you through the process step by step so you know what to expect if there's a demolition in your neighborhood.
Upcoming Demolitions
All demolitions listed are subject to change.
All active and planned demolitions
How a Property Gets on the Demolition List
Report: Residents, community groups, or city staff submit a structure concern through Engage Toledo.
Inspection: A Code Compliance inspector issues violations. Owners are given notice and time to fix issues.
Failure to Comply: If structural concerns aren't resolved, the property may be referred as a demolition candidate.
Review: The City ensures the structure qualifies for demolition and allocates funding as available.
Public Notice: Demolition notices are posted on the property, mailed to the owner of record, and added to the online database.
How a Property Gets Removed from the Demolition List
If you have received a demolition notice for a property you own, you'll need to demonstrate that you can repair the property and resolve all code violations within 180 days.
If you are looking to purchase a home on the demo, you'll need to work with the current owner to complete a repair plan prior to transfer.
Renovation that brings the property up to code may remove it from the demolition list. Contact Code Compliance for assistance before starting any repairs.
The Demolition Process
Here’s what happens once a building is approved for demolition.
Safety Checks: Inspect for asbestos and hazards; hire licensed removal specialists.
Approvals & Utilities: Historic and environmental reviews completed; gas, water, and electric shut off.
Neighbor Notification: Residents are informed about timing and dust-control measures.
Demolition: Crews tear down the structure, spray water to control dust, and remove all debris.
Site Restoration: The lot is filled, graded, topsoil added, and seeded with grass/clover.
Inspection: The City checks that the site is clean and safe.
Billing: Costs are billed to the owner. Unpaid costs become a tax lien on the property.
What Happens Next?
When demolition is complete, the property is transferred to the Lucas County Land Bank, which works with neighbors and the community to determine reuse.
Side Lot Program: Neighbors can purchase the lot to expand their yard.
Adopt-a-Lot / Farm-a-Lot: Create community gardens or urban farms.
Greenspace: Enjoyment for the neighborhood.
New Development: Land assembly for housing or business projects.