DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 415 Original 2015 Regular Session Barrow
Abstract: Requires municipalities with a population of more than 50,000 to adopt ordinances to
ensure property is maintained to community standards of civic health and integrity.
Proposed law requires the governing authority of a municipality with a population of more than
50,000 to adopt ordinances to ensure that the appearance and character of all property is maintained
to a standard that reflects civic health and integrity. Such ordinances shall include:
(1)Requirements that owners of commercial property maintain their property even when such
property is unleased or unoccupied. If the property owner fails to do so, requires the local
governing authority to take action to maintain the property to the community's standards of
civic health and integrity and charge the property owner for such work. Such ordinances
shall provide for appropriate procedures and notice to property owners.
(2)Requirements that owners of businesses notify the municipal governing authority regarding
the closing of a business not less that 60 days prior to the anticipated date of such closure.
(3)Prohibitions on excessive signage on a single tract or other small area.
(4)Establishing programs to encourage neighborhood pride and creativity and innovation in
achieving high standards of civic health and integrity.
(5)Partnerships with community-based, nonprofit organizations to raise awareness of the impact
of negligence and to encourage civic responsibility with respect to property maintenance.
(Adds R.S. 33:4885)