New Lien Forgiveness Program to Benefit Salem Property Owners

Clearing property code violations, just got easier. Salem is now offering a new Lien Forgiveness Program for property owners in the city that have received property code violations and have been unable to pay them.

Participants in the new lien forgiveness program will repair or restore their properties, correcting any code violations before June 30, 2026, and the City will forgive unpaid penalties and derelict structure fees.

The City of Salem Lien Forgiveness Program is a temporary program designed to encourage property owners to voluntarily correct public nuisances such as trash and debris, derelict structures and other Property Maintenance Code violations on their properties, in exchange for the forgiving of City liens.

"This new program has been created to help property owners alleviate the financial burden of liens for distressed properties and reduces barriers for property transfers and property rehabilitation; benefiting the property owner and the community," said Mitch Nickolds, Salem's Compliance Services Manager and designated Health Officer.

Salem currently has 321 liens valued at $810,104 and there are 72 properties with City liens eligible for forgiveness. The City anticipates that participation in this program will provide a decrease in inspection services and associated costs of monitoring uncorrected Property Maintenance Violations.

Applicants can learn more about the program and download the application form at https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/neighborhoods/report-concerns/code-enforcement. Additional information about Salem's Lien Forgiveness Program is available by calling 503-588-6421 or emailing [email protected].

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