Verify Property Compliance in New Orleans – 2025

Whether you're buying your first home, investing in a rental property, or developing a commercial space in New Orleans, verifying property compliance is essential in 2025. With local ordinances, zoning rules, and post-Hurricane Ida rebuilding codes tightening in recent years, overlooking compliance checks can lead to costly delays or penalties.

Here’s what you need to know to ensure your property is compliant with the City of New Orleans regulations this year.

What Is Property Compliance?

Property compliance refers to ensuring that a property meets all applicable:

• Zoning ordinances

• Building codes

• Permitting rules

• Short-term rental regulations

• Historic district guidelines (e.g., Vieux Carré Commission rules)

• Occupancy and safety standards

Failing to comply can result in fines, legal action, stop-work orders, or even forced demolition of unpermitted construction.

Common Compliance Issues in New Orleans

In 2025, here are the most common compliance concerns we see:

1. Short-Term Rental (STR) Violations: Since the 2023 update to STR laws, permits are more restricted, especially in residential zones. Unpermitted Airbnb s are being aggressively enforced.

2. Flood Zone Requirements: Properties in FEMA flood zones must adhere to strict elevation and insurance requirements. Check for updated Base Flood Elevation (BFE) data.

3. Unpermitted Renovations: Many homes, especially in historic neighborhoods, undergo DIY renovations that lack proper permits. These can stall a sale or financing.

4. Zoning Conflicts: If you plan to use a property for something other than what it’s zoned for (e.g., commercial use in a residential area), you may need a zoning change or variance.

5. Historic Preservation Compliance: Any work in the French Quarter or Marigny requires approval from the Vieux Carré Commission or Historic District Landmarks Commission (HDLC).

How to Verify Property Compliance

Here’s a step-by-step process:

1. Search the Property on OneStopApp (nola.gov/onestop): You can look up permits, zoning, violations, and license history.

2. Review Zoning via the New Orleans Zoning Map: Use nola.gov/onestop/zoning to check land use permissions.

3. Confirm STR Permit Status (if applicable): Use the city’s STR portal to confirm permit status or violations.

4. Contact the Department of Safety and Permits: Request a code compliance letter for peace of mind before buying.

5. Hire a Local Code Consultant or Real Estate Attorney: This is especially helpful if the property is older or in a historic district.

Pro Tips for 2025

• Always request a permit history report during due diligence.

• Use a licensed contractor familiar with New Orleans codes.

• Double-check whether past violations have been resolved.

• Budget for possible compliance upgrades, especially in older homes.

Legal Disclaimer

Disclaimer: 

This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Local laws and regulations are subject to change. Readers are encouraged to consult directly with the New Orleans Department of Safety and Permits, a licensed attorney, or a qualified code consultant to verify compliance and obtain the most current information relevant to their specific property. The author assumes no liability for reliance on this information.