Commercial Vitality Ordinance

Supporting a Clean, Safe, and Active Downtown

The City of Half Moon Bay developed a Commercial Vitality Ordinance to help keep our business areas vibrant and welcoming. The ordinance sets maintenance standards for commercial storefronts and creates a process for reporting and managing vacant or neglected properties.

Why It Matters

Vacant or poorly maintained storefronts can:

• Detract from community character
• Lower nearby property values
• Discourage investment and activity
• Affect the overall look and feel of downtown

This ordinance supports a thriving, safe, and visually appealing business environment for residents, visitors, and business owners. 

What the Ordinance Does

The ordinance:

• Defines “empty” and “neglected” storefronts
• Requires property owners to notify the City when a space becomes vacant
• Sets minimum maintenance and appearance standards
• Encourages collaboration before enforcement
• Supports City goals for economic and community vitality

Who It Applies To

• Commercial properties within City limits
• Primarily ground-floor storefronts visible from public streets
• Both vacant and occupied properties are expected to maintain basic exterior upkeep

Key Requirements

1. Vacancy Notification
Property owners must notify the City within 30 days of a space becoming vacant and provide updates every 90 days thereafter. To submit the form online, click here Version Options Commercial Vitality Ordinance Headline. Alternatively, owners may complete the Empty Storefront Registration Form and return it to the City as instructed.

2. Maintenance Standards
 Owners must:

• Keep building exteriors, signage, and landscaping in good condition
• Secure vacant spaces (doors, windows, etc.)
• Prevent trash buildup and illegal dumping

3. Visual Activation of Vacant Spaces
If a space remains vacant for more than 30 days, property owners are encouraged to install an “active” display, such as artwork, historic photographs, or local promotions, to maintain a lively streetscape. Any proposed display is subject to review and approval by the City.

Enforcement

The City’s goal is to work collaboratively with property owners first.
If issues remain unresolved, standard code enforcement tools such as notices or fines may be used to ensure compliance.

Related Documents: 

Vitality Ordinance 

Empty Storefront Registration Form

Staff Report - Vitality Ordinance Study Session

Staff Report - Vitality Ordinance First Reading

Staff Report - Vitality Ordinance Second Reading

Vitality Ordinance Study Session PPT