How to Get a Yard Extension

Step 1.How to Check if a Lot Next to Your Property is in the Land Bank

• Use the Interactive Land Bank Map

• Select the zoning type (Residential or Commercial) to see if the Land Bank owns the property next to yours.

• You can also check for unbuildable lots touching your property lines.

• Make note of key information: Once you find the lot you’re interested in, write down the parcel number and address. You’ll need them later in the application process.

Step 2.Know the Rules

Residential Applicants (Homeowners):

• Abutting Homeowners:
  • Must share a common boundary on either side of the applicant’s property.
  • Must share the same street name.
  • Alternatively, may be a contiguous landlocked/unbuildable parcel.
    
    
• Ownership & Residency Requirements:
  • Must be the owner of the property.
  • The property must be used as your primary residence.
    
    
• Tax & Code Compliance:
  • Must be current on property taxes.
  • No active code violations on the property.
    
    
• Property Type:
  • Must be a vacant lot.
  • May acquire only one property for yard extension per primary residence (with some exceptions for unbuildable lots).
    
    
• Yard Extension Requirements:
  • The lot must be joined with your property.
  • This process is managed by the GSS Department.
    
    

Commercial Applicants:

• Abutting Commercial Property Owners:
  • Must be an abutting property (sharing a boundary) with the applicant’s property.
    
    
• Business Requirements:
  • The business must be legally operating.
  • Business licenses will be verified.
    
    
• Ownership Requirements:
  • Must be the owner of the commercial property.
    
    
• Property Type:
  • Must be a vacant lot.

Step 3.Gather Information

You will need several pieces of information to get started. Filling out the application will be quick and easy if you have these items ready to go.

• Parcel number.
• Address of the lot.
• Picture of your home or business.

Step 4.Pricing

• Residential - $0.10 per sqft
• Commercial - $0.25 per sqft

Step 5.Complete the Application

Apply for a Yard Extension

Step 6.Know What to Expect Next

Each proposed plan must be presented to the Unified Government Board of Commission. We are here to support and assist you through this process. Here are some things you need to know. Land Band Staff will:

• Share your project with area neighborhood groups and Neighborhood Business Revitalization Organization's (NBR) and gather feedback.

• Schedule your project to be heard at a Unified Government Standing Committee and Full Commission meeting.

• Share the scheduled meeting date and time with you.

• Create a presentation for your project and send it to you for review before the scheduled meetings.

Step 7.If Approved

• Deed Transfer: If your project is approved, Land Bank staff will contact you with instructions to create the deed and transfer the property to you.

• Enjoy your new space!