Objective

The New York State Land Bank Program permits municipalities to apply for and create land banks in their communities. Land banks are not-for-profit corporations created to take control of, and redevelop, vacant or abandoned properties to better serve the public interest.

Overview

In order to combat the problem of vacant and abandoned properties, the New York State Land Bank Program permits municipalities to apply for and create land banks in their communities, pursuant to Article 16 of the New York State Not-for-Profit Corporation Law signed into law in July 2011, which permits the creation of 35 land banks in New York State. 

The primary focus of land bank operations is the acquisition of real property that is tax delinquent, tax foreclosed, vacant and/or abandoned, and to use the tools of the program to eliminate the harms and liabilities caused by such properties. Land banks help communities facilitate the return of vacant, abandoned and tax-delinquent properties to productive use.

Eligibility

• Eligibility, criteria and additional program information, can be found in the Land Bank Program Guidelines. 
• For additional information, please review the Land Bank Act (Article 16 of the Not-for-Profit Corporation Law).

How to Apply

ESD is currently accepting applications for the Land Bank Program. 

Click here to download a copy of the Land Bank Application.  Applications and additional required documentation can be submitted via email to Steve Gawlik at the email listed below.

Contact Information
To learn more about the Land Bank Program, please contact Steve Gawlik via email or phone at (716) 846-8257.