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Berkeley City Zoning Code

ARTICLE XVII

Economic Development Improvement - Mow And Own Program

Section 400.1360 Mow And Own Program.

[Ord. No. 4580, 11-4-2019]
A. 
The City of Berkeley is enabled through its Charter to facilitate programs that create opportunities for land development and neighborhood stabilization. The Mow and Own Program will offer the opportunity for current homeowner occupants to purchase the vacant lots that are located adjacent to their properties. These purchases will allow owner occupants to acquire and own lots that they maintain and keep in compliance with City of Berkeley Code.
B. 
This program will assist in removing nuisance lots where dumping and overgrowth is a consistent problem for neighbors. This program will also provide an opportunity for owner occupants to own land that will be a productive source of tax revenue for the City of Berkeley. These lots can be used for purposes such as community gardens and private lot consolidations.
C. 
Increased neighborhood beautification and maintenance will support the objectives of the comprehensive plan to redevelop and stabilize residential neighborhoods.

Section 400.1370 Program Eligibility.

[Ord. No. 4580, 11-4-2019]
A. 
Applicants:
1. 
All applicants must be owner/occupants of homes directly adjacent to the lot being purchased for a minimum of three (3) years.
2. 
Applicants must not have any liens or tax arrears with the City of Berkeley or St. Louis County.
3. 
Applicants must propose desired usage of the lot.
4. 
Applicants must provide proof of funds and income to purchase and maintain the lot.
B. 
Eligible Lots:
1. 
Eligible lots shall be those deemed unsuitable for development based on Section 405.120, Residential Lot Design Standards.
2. 
The lot must not be contiguous to any other vacant lots owned by the City of Berkeley.
3. 
The lot must be vacant and unimproved real property.
C. 
Owner Responsibility:
1. 
The new owner must keep the property free of overgrown grass in compliance with the City Ordinance to maintain grass at no higher than seven (7) inches.
2. 
The new owner must keep property free of debris and trash.
3. 
The new owner must pay and keep current the real estate taxes assessed on the lot.
4. 
The new owner must agree to not sell the lot independently of the property that is currently owned/occupied unless approved by the City Council.