West Virginia legislation · 2026 Regular Session
West Virginia HB5603: To fine and hold legally responsible land owners from out of state who neglect their land
Status: Introduced, February 16, 2026
What the bill says
To amend the Code of West Virginia, 1931, as amended, by adding a new section, designated §8-40-1, §8-40-2, §8-40-3, §8-40-4, §8-40-5, and §8-40-6, relating to out-of-state dilapidated property accountability act, establishing purpose, defining terms; requiring registration and designation of agent; requiring notice of violations; providing landowner notice of and duty to remedy violation; and establishing civil penalties. Article 40. Out-of-State Dilapidated Property Accountability Act. §8-40-1. Purpose. The Legislature finds that abandoned and dilapidated properties owned by out-of-st.
From the introduced text, February 16, 2026:
A BILL to amend the Code of West Virginia, 1931, as amended, by adding a new section, designated §8-40-1, §8-40-2, §8-40-3, §8-40-4, §8-40-5, and §8-40-6, relating to out-of-state dilapidated property accountability act, establishing purpose, defining terms; requiring registration and designation of agent; requiring notice of violations; providing landowner notice of and duty to remedy violation; and establishing civil penalties. Article 40. Out-of-State Dilapidated Property Accountability Act. §8-40-1. Purpose. The Legislature finds that abandoned and dilapidated properties owned by out-of-state landowners create public safety hazards, reduce property values, and burden local governments. The purpose of this section is to ensure accountability, timely remediation, and fair cost recovery. §8-40-2. Definitions. For purposes of this section: (1) "Out-of-state landowner" means any individual or entity that owns real property within West Virginia and whose primary residence or principal place of business is located outside the state. (2) "Dilapidated property" means any structure, pavement or parcel (B) Is in violation of local or state building, housing, or fire codes; or (C) Has been vacant and unsecured for a period exceeding twelve (12) consecutive months. (3) "Enforcing authority" means a municipality, county commission, or authorized code enforcement agency. §8-40-3. Registration Requirement. (a) All out-of-state landowners shall register their ownership with the enforcing authority within sixty (60) days of acquiring property. (b) Registration shall (2) A designated …