The City of Detroit has issued a moratorium on opening mechanics’ shops, used car dealers, tire lots, scrapping facilities and other similar operations in the city beginning April 1, as part of an effort to curtail the number of such businesses from expanding in neighborhoods.

In recent years as values of land and commercial spaces have fallen in value, dozens of automotive-related businesses have opened up on empty lots, former mechanics’ shops and other areas, prompting concern from residents over property values and quality of life.

The moratorium, which falls under a newly enacted Executive Order, will last one year. During that one-year period, the City will assess the regulatory framework already in place for these establishments and to make or recommend to City Council changes that might be necessary. Specifically, the City’s review is designed to determine appropriate measures to limit overconcentration, increase compliance with property maintenance and zoning standards, decrease crime, and curtail illegal business operations.

Businesses that already operate used car lots, tire lots and other similar businesses will have 90 days prior to April 1 to comply with existing city ordinances or face closure. The following businesses are affected: Used tire storage and sales, used auto sales, scrap iron and metal processors, junk dealers, auto dismantling and wrecking, and major and minor auto repair.

"In light of the expansion of these types of businesses, we need to make sure we can effectively regulate them so they do not negatively impact our neighborhoods,” said Dave Bell, director of the City’s Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department. “We are giving the operators of all existing businesses of these types 90 days to come into compliance before the moratorium begins. Existing businesses that are operating legally but may be out of compliance will have the opportunity to enter into a consent agreement with the City to establish a firm timeline for getting into compliance.”

For more information on the Executive Order, click here.

Photo via Flickr