Abstract
In recent years, the number of vacant and abandoned properties which pose a threat to public safety has grown increasingly. More than 370 ordinances have been enacted by the local governments during the past four years. Even though these ordinances empower the municipalities to recommend and order the duty of property owners, their powers may have limitations. In order to address this situation, several members of the Diet are preparing to submit a draft law named “the Act on Special Measures Concerning Vacant Properties” to the Diet. However, neither ordinance nor draft law sufficiently stipulates solutions to vacant properties problems. It is necessary to examine matters recognized in the local area demonstratively, as well as to establish a legal system in a way that allocates function between law and ordinance adequately.
