Amie Courtney, left, and Krista-Ann Staley, right, of Babst Calland Clements & Zomnir.
Philadelphia has won the right to prohibit properties identified as “blighting influences” from boarding up doors and windows, and municipalities, community activists, property owners and developers should take notice.
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court on Sept. 13, unanimously issued a decision in Rufo v. Board of License and Inspection Review, 2018 WL 4355212, __ A.3d __, upholding Philadelphia’s Windows and Doors Ordinance (the ordinance). The ordinance requires all vacant buildings that are “blighting influences” to have frames and glazing on all windows and doors on all entryways. It explicitly prohibits sealing windows and doors with boards or masonry.
