(a) Applicability. The following standards are applicable to all residential structures, dwelling units (including those located in commercial buildings), and residential portions of mixed-use structures.
(b) Exterior Property and Structure Exteriors. A building and the exterior of all premises shall be properly maintained to achieve a presentable appearance and to avoid blighting effects and hazardous conditions.
(1) Exterior Space. The exterior open space around each dwelling shall be maintained or so improved to provide for:
A. The immediate diversion of water away from buildings and structures and proper drainage on the lot;
B. Grass, plantings or other suitable ground cover to prevent soil erosion;
C. Yard-walks, parking areas, patio, and driveways of concrete, asphalt, pavers, or similar surface shall be properly constructed and maintained;
D. Exterior steps shall be properly constructed and maintained free of hazardous conditions.
(2) Maintenance. The exterior of all premises and every structure thereon including but not limited to walls, roofs, cornices, chimneys, drains, towers, porches, landings, fire escapes, stairs, signs, windows, doors, awnings and all surfaces thereof, shall be maintained to avoid blighting effects on neighboring properties. Surfaces shall be painted or protected where necessary for preservation of the material. All canopies, signs, awnings, exterior stairways, fire escapes, standpipes, exhaust ducts, porches, balconies, and similar overhanging extensions which are exposed to public view shall be maintained in good condition and shall not show evidence of ripping, tearing or deterioration.
(3) Fences and Walls. All fences, retaining walls, or similar structures shall be anchored firmly in the ground, constructed in a proper and workmanlike manner and maintained in a state of good structural repair. A fence, retaining wall, or similar structure not in a state of good structural repair shall be removed, replaced, or repaired as required. A fence shall be treated periodically with paint, stain or chemicals to retard deterioration, unless constructed of materials that have been designed or manufactured to remain untreated.
(4) Yards. A yard, court, and lot shall be kept free of grass six inches or higher, debris, and materials that are a fire, health, or safety hazard.
(5) Hazards. Health, safety or fire hazards and unsanitary conditions shall be eliminated.
(6) Occupancy. No temporary building, trailer, recreational vehicle, tent, or garage shall be used temporarily or permanently as a residence.
(8) Commercial Vehicle. No semi-trailer or semi-truck or commercial vehicle in excess of 10,000 GVW shall be parked on any property located in a residential zoning district except when making deliveries or transporting personal goods to or from a residence.
(9) Furniture and Appliances. No furniture or appliance intended for indoor use may be stored or used outside.
(11) Exterior Stairways. All exterior stairways on residential premises shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with the following provisions.
A. Stairways shall be free of holes, grooves, and cracks which constitute a safety hazard;
B. Stairways shall be free of rotted or deteriorated supports;
C. Stairways shall have treads of uniform width and risers of uniform height; and
D. Stairway handrails and railings shall be firmly fastened and maintained in good condition. Where the absence of handrails and/or railings creates a hazardous condition, the Zoning Inspector may require their installation in accordance with the provisions of the Geauga County Building Code.
(12) Accessory Structures. A structure accessory to a dwelling, including a detached garage, shall be structurally sound, maintained, and in good repair.
(Ord. 2727. Passed 6-14-12.)
(14) Landscape Materials. Landscape materials (mulch, topsoil, compost, rock/pebbles, etc.) shall only be stored in yards for a period of time not exceeding two (2) months. Any unbagged pile of landscape materials which sits in a pile for a period longer than seven (7) days shall be covered with a tarp and stakes to stop the growth of fungus, decay, and rot.
(Ord. 3162. Passed 4-8-21.)