A condemned property or building is one that a municipality (city or town) has closed, seized, or placed restrictions on because it is determined to be unsafe, unsanitary, or otherwise a risk to public health and safety.
The circumstances under which municipalities may condemn properties are usually described in local or municipal ordinances.
In Wisconsin, the condemnation of property or buildings is governed by local municipal ordinances, which are rules established by cities or towns. These ordinances outline the conditions under which a property may be condemned, typically due to it being unsafe, unsanitary, or posing a risk to public health and safety. The process often involves an inspection by a building inspector or other municipal official, who can issue orders for the property to be vacated, repaired, or demolished. Property owners are usually given notice and an opportunity to remedy the violations before further action is taken. If the owner fails to comply, the municipality may proceed with condemnation actions, which could include seizing the property or placing restrictions on its use. State statutes, such as those found in Chapter 66 of the Wisconsin Statutes, provide additional guidance and procedures for municipalities to address substandard or dangerous buildings, including the legal process for condemning and potentially acquiring such properties.