A. Within fourteen (14) days after a structure becomes "vacant", as defined in section 9-3-1 of this chapter, the owner of the structure shall apply for a vacant structure registration certificate and pay a fee of fifty dollars ($50.00). It shall be the responsibility of the registered owner to file an amended registration and pay a new registration fee of fifty dollars ($50.00) within fourteen (14) days after any changes of the information contained in the initial application, including occupancy or transfer. During the period of registration, the owner shall provide access to the village to conduct inspections of the structure, both interior and exterior, if deemed necessary by the village, and, following reasonable notice, to determine compliance with this chapter and any other relevant codes and ordinances of the village.
B. The owner of a vacant structure shall comply with all regulations of the village. To this end, the owner shall apply for all building and zoning permits necessary to bring the structure into compliance within fourteen (14) days of obtaining a vacant structure registration certificate.
C. The owner of a vacant structure shall, within fourteen (14) days after receipt of the vacant structure registration certificate, complete the removal of all:
1. Combustible materials from the structure in compliance with the applicable fire prevention regulations;
2. Waste, rubbish or debris from the interior of the structure; and
3. Waste, rubbish, debris or excess vegetation including grass in excess of ten inches (10") from the yards surrounding the vacant structure in accordance with this code.
D. The owner of a vacant structure shall immediately lock, barricade or secure all doors, windows and other openings in the structure to prevent entry by unauthorized persons, in accordance with the vacant structure maintenance standards of this chapter. The owner shall, as needed, provide additional security in the event of increased danger to human life or the public welfare, as determined by the village. (2013 Code § 11-2-4)
E. The obligations of the owner of a vacant structure are continuing obligations which are effective throughout the time of the vacancy. (2013 Code § 11-2-4; amd. 2016 Code)