City code enforcement officers are about to get some new tools to go after vacant buildings in Santa Monica. On Tuesday, the City Council approved new measures that would force buildings owners to either get to work or tear down a building or pay a fine.

The ordinance also allows code enforcement to go after deteriorating properties, hazardous trees and overgrown vegetation.

A November report found 29 vacant properties in the 8-square-mile city. Half of them are single family homes, ten are apartment buildings and three are commercial properties. 

Read More: http://smdp.com/vacant-buildings-subject-to-new-scrutiny-and-fines/160058