In 2024, Kansas Senate Bill 384 (SB384) granted Riley County the authority to clean up nuisance properties in unincorporated areas after property owners are found guilty of violating county codes. A property nuisance includes conditions that endanger public health, such as abandoned vehicles, hazardous materials, or broken furniture. Previously, Riley County had limited enforcement options when property owners refused to comply with court orders.

County Counselor Bryant Parker explained that several properties have been sources of complaints for decades. While property owners receive multiple opportunities to resolve violations, some persist in non-compliance even after court intervention. SB384 now allows the county to step in and abate nuisances following legal proceedings.

Under the law, a new round of notifications was issued, ensuring property owners had a final opportunity to address violations voluntarily. One property has changed ownership and is being cleaned up, while legal proceedings are underway for others. Currently, four property owners with the most severe violations are facing charges, which could lead to court-ordered cleanups.

Once a property owner is found guilty, the Riley County Board of Commissioners can authorize cleanup. Costs are billed to property owners, not taxpayers. One identified nuisance property contains over 100 inoperable vehicles, which will be auctioned if the owner is found guilty.

Nuisances are typically reported through public complaints. Residents who observe unsafe conditions in unincorporated areas can notify Riley County Planning and Development at 785-537-6332.