Except to the extent specifically provided otherwise in another chapter of this code of ordinances, the following shall apply with respect to any violation of this code of ordinances:
(A) In the event of a violation of this ordinance, the violator shall be issued a citation or other written notice of the violation.
(B) A violation of a provision of this code shall not constitute a criminal infraction or misdemeanor as provided at G.S. 14-4 and shall not be subject to criminal prosecution.
(C) A violation of a town ordinance regulating the operation or parking of vehicles shall subject the violator to a civil penalty of $50. Violation of any other provision of this code shall subject the violator to a civil penalty in the amount of $100.
(D) Civil penalties must be paid within 30 calendar days after receipt of the notice. If the violator does not pay the penalty within 30 calendar days after receipt of the notice, a late-payment penalty of $20 shall accrue. The town may recover the penalty and any subsequently accruing penalties in a civil action.
(E) Each day's continuing violation of any ordinance provision shall be a separate and distinct violation subject to a separate civil penalty and separate late-payment penalty.
(F) All ordinances also may be enforced by appropriate equitable remedies issuing from a court of competent jurisdiction, including but not limited to orders of abatement and/or injunction, and by any other remedy authorized pursuant to G.S. 160A-175 or other law.
(G) In the event it is necessary for the town to institute a civil action to collect a civil penalty for the violation of any provision of any town ordinance, the offender shall pay all court costs, including filing fees, fees for service of process, and other expenses incurred in the litigation, such as costs of depositions, copying expenses and charges, and reasonable attorney's fees incurred by the town.
(Ord. 13-01, passed 1-15-2013; Ord. passed 7-23-2015; Ord. passed 12-15-2016; Ord. passed 11-21-2019)
Statutory reference:
Enforcement of ordinances, see G.S. § 160A-175