Help Desk

How can I identify the owner of a vacant lot?

The most reliable source of information on property ownership is Cuyahoga County’s MyPlace map.

When using this resource, it's important to know that property owners may be listed under multiple names. For instance, the Cleveland Land Bank owns parcels using over 200 different name variations. These can range from "CITY OF CLEVELAND LAND REUTILIZATION PROGRAM" to "CLEVELAND CITY OF LB96." To assist in identifying major landowners and their various name listings on MyPlace, you can refer to a comprehensive list available here.

How can I contact the owner of a vacant lot in Cleveland?

The process for contacting the owner of a vacant lot depends on who owns the property:

For Cleveland Land Bank properties, which constitute the majority of vacant lots in Cleveland, you can call 216-664-4126 or email CD-DND@clevelandohio.gov.

If the lot is owned by the Cuyahoga Land Bank, you can reach out through their official website.

For privately owned parcels, the process may require more effort. A good starting point is to contact your local Community Development Corporation or Councilperson, as they might have existing relationships with property owners in the area.

In some cases, you may need to conduct your own research using online resources or other means to locate the property owner's contact information

What programs does the Cleveland Land Bank offer?

The Cleveland Land Bank currently offers three programs. Applicants can apply to buy land outright or lease it for specific uses. Other proposed uses may also be considered.

1. Homeowner Yard Expansion: Homeowners can buy Land Bank lots to make their yards bigger. The empty lot must be right next to or behind the house they own and live in.

2. Infill Development: Buyers can purchase Land Bank lots for infill development, which involves building structures with foundations and other permitted uses. Most projects involve constructing new housing units.

3. Urban Agriculture and Community Gardens: Community members can apply to lease Land Bank lots for gardens or farming, choosing between one-year agreements or multi-year options

Contact the Cleveland Land Bank or refer to the Cleveland Land Bank FAQ for more information.

How do I know when I’m ready to submit an application to the Cleveland Land Bank? 

You're ready to submit an application to the Cleveland Land Bank when: 

• You're eager to invest in Cleveland's future by caring for the land responsibly 

• You don't owe any property taxes in Cleveland 

• Property you own in Cleveland doesn't have any code violations 

• If you own residential rental properties in Cleveland, they're all properly registered 

• You've drawn up a clear plan for how you'll use the land 

• You're not in a rush - the process can take a few months 

How does the Cleveland Land Bank repurpose land? 

Repurposing vacant land requires a broad community of people to ensure the land use aligns with shared goals. The Cleveland Land Bank facilitates this process by ensuring future land users are well-prepared for this project and all stakeholders have a chance to help make the project a success. The Cleveland Land Bank repurposes land through an application process with multiple steps for reviews. This process is similar for all programs offered by the Cleveland Land Bank.  

1. Complete application is received: Interested buyers submit an application that includes their planned use for the land and a site plan. 

2. Internal Land Bank review: Staff in the Cleveland Land Bank evaluates the proposal to ensure meets the basic criteria for completeness and alignment with City goals.  

3. Local stakeholder review: The area's City Councilmember, the neighborhood planner, and the local Community Development Corporation, have 45 days to provide the Land Bank with their input.  

4. Applicant is notified: The Land Bank considers the stakeholder’s input and decides whether to approve the application. If approved, they may attach certain conditions to the sale. 

5. Project Readiness Check: For some projects, the Land Bank verifies two key elements before proceeding: (1) Design approval from Planning Commission and (2) Proof of adequate financing. 

6. Property transfer: Once administrative approvals are obtained, the Land Bank prepares a deed and transfers the property to the approved buyer.