City of Birmingham sues owner of 3 Southside properties, asks for buildings to be declared public nuisances

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) - The city of Birmingham has sued the owner of three Southside properties and are seeking to have them declared as public nuisances. Originally, the city said these properties were in Five Points South; however, a correction was sent.

Officials said the lawsuit was filed Nov. 5 in the Jefferson County Circuit Court and identifies properties at 1923 First Avenue South, 1922 Second Avenue South, and 110 20th Street South. City officials said they are asking the court to require the demolition of the structures at the owner’s expense and appoint a receiver to take control of the properties and address the hazardous conditions.

According to the city and court filing, Birmingham Fire and Rescue responded to fires at the properties over the last two years, including a fire inside the building at 1923 First Avenue South on March 23.

Recently, the city said a man who was shot Nov. 1 retreated into one of the buildings where he was found dead.

City officials said the lawsuit stated that the city notified the property owner of code violations in September 2025 and January 2026. Despite the notices, the city said the properties remained unsecured, vacant, and accessible to unauthorized people.

“The city contends that the unsecured properties have created ongoing public safety risks for neighboring businesses and residents, prompting increased police patrols in the area,” officials said. “The lawsuit asks the court to declare the properties public nuisances, order their demolition at the owner’s expense, appoint a receiver to take immediate possession and control of the properties, and award attorney’s fees.”

If you need to report a nuisance property, you are asked to contact the office of the city attorney at problemproperty@birminghamal.gov or 205-254-6450.

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