The purpose of the ordinance is to address the impacts of empty storefronts on the economic vitality of the community. Additionally, empty storefronts are an increased draw on city resources to respond to graffiti abatement, police response for vandalism and squatting; debris removal, sidewalk cleaning, and power waste.
Maintenance Requirements for Storefronts
The Vibrancy Ordinance has established maintenance requirements for storefronts. Maintenance requirements for empty storefronts include requirements such as: posting the name and contact phone number of the property manager, keep storefronts free from trash and graffiti, and keep storefronts secure so as not to be accessible to unauthorized persons. See Chapter 5.84 ("Vibrancy Ordinance") for more details.
Registration of Storefronts & Application Process
The owner of an empty storefront, within two years after it has become empty, must register the property with the City unless the property is actively participating in the City's Downtown Pops! Program OR similar City program, OR if the storefront is involved in a City-required permitting process OR is actively under construction for repair.
Registration requires coordination with Planning and Community Development. Once registered, registration must remain active with the City. Below is an outline on how to register a storefront:
1. Complete registration application (also see below for registration application).
2. Submit Property Maintenance Plan(s) with the goal to reach compliance.
3. Submit documentation showing a local property manager has been retained.
4. Submit description of the most recent use of the empty storefront and details such as square footage of the property, and any future plans of the property.
5. Pay the registration fee and submit any other information required by the Planning and Community Development Department.
Vibrancy Registration Application
Applications are accepted in-person or electronically by email. For questions and assistance, please contact Sarah Domondon at 831-420-5315 or by email at sdomondon@santacruzca.gov.
