Side Lot Program

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The City of Binghamton Side Lot Program transfers ownership of vacant lots from the City to eligible contiguous property owners for the purpose of extending the property owner’s yard. Side lot programs exist across the country with the aim of beautifying neighborhoods and enhancing quality of life for residents. They also alleviate the burden on the municipality to mow and otherwise maintain its vacant parcels.

Lots acquired through the City’s Side Lot Program are deed-restricted and must remain green space. No new construction is permitted on the lots, with the exception of sheds, decks, patios or driveways that are approved by the City prior to purchase. Once ownership is transferred, the lot will be merged with the purchaser’s adjoining property. The Parks Department will plant up to two trees, free of charge, on most lots prior to transfer of ownership. Purchasers must opt out of the free service on the Offer to Purchase form if they do not want trees planted on the lot.

Buyer Eligibility

Buyer must own a property that shares a significant border with the vacant lot he/she wishes to purchase through the City’s Side Lot Program.
Buyer must be in good standing with the City’s Building Construction and Code Enforcement Department and have no open building or code violations or outstanding fines on any properties he/she owns in the City of Binghamton.
The buyer must be current on property taxes and water and sewer bills for all properties he/she owns in the City of Binghamton.

Additional eligibility requirements and restrictions may apply. Buyers must maintain vacant lots to the City standard outlined in the Housing and Property Maintenance Code. The City may incorporate additional deed restrictions into the sale to ensure certain conditions are met. If the purchaser fails to properly maintain the lot, the City may exercise discretion and take back title to the property.

Plan Submission

As part of the Offer to Purchase form, interested buyers must submit to the City a plan for their intended use of the lot, including all proposed changes, prior to purchase. The City reserves the right to accept or reject any proposals. If multiple eligible property owners submit an Offer to Purchase for the same lot, the City Planning Department will have discretion in selecting the most appropriate purchaser based on proposed use, plot location/layout and other factors. The Planning Department may also choose to award the parcel to the highest eligible bidder.

The City’s recommendation for vacant lot plans, under most circumstances, includes:

At least 90 percent of the lot should be green space. Landscaping is encouraged.
Prospective owners should consider shrubs or fencing, excluding chain-link fencing, near the public right of way or to block existing curb cuts. Split rail fencing is often the preferred method of enclosure.

If you are interested in purchasing a lot, or if you want more information, please call (607) 772-7001 or email mjheiman@cityofbinghamton.gov.