A. Definitions. For the purposes of this section:
"Abandoned motor vehicle" means any motor vehicle, as defined in this section, which is left unattended on any public street, alley, public place or parking lot within the city for a period longer than twenty-four (24) hours without notifying law enforcement and making arrangements for the parking of such motor vehicle.
"Approved cover" means any cover that is manufactured, designed for fitted and maintained and intended to cover a specific motor vehicle and have no parts of the vehicle visible except for the lower half of the vehicle wheels and tires to screen it from public view. A standard rectangular or square tarp shall not be considered an approved cover.
"Inoperable vehicle" means any motor vehicle, as herein defined, which is not in operating condition due to damage, removal or inoperability of one or more tires, wheels, engine or other essential parts required for the operation of the vehicle; or which constitutes an immediate health, safety, fire or traffic hazard.
"Junked motor vehicle" means any motor vehicle which does not have lawfully affixed thereto a valid state license plate or the condition of which is wrecked, dismantled, partially dismantled or inoperable.
"Motor vehicle" means any vehicle which is designed to travel along or on the ground or water, and shall include, but not be limited to, automobiles, buses, motorbikes, UTVs, motorcycles, motor scooters, trucks, tractors, go-carts, golf carts, campers, trailers, boats and farm equipment.
B. Unsheltered storage of inoperable or junked vehicles or parts thereof, not in safe operating condition, or not bearing a current valid license, for a period of thirty (30) days or more, is declared to be a public nuisance and a public safety concern.
C. The presence of an abandoned, inoperable or junked vehicle or partially dismantled motor vehicle, or parts thereof, on private or public property may be abated as such in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
D. This section shall not apply to any motor vehicle enclosed within a building on private property, or to any motor vehicle covered with an approved cover. Nor does this section apply to an auto business held in connection with a property designed and approved for such purposes and properly operated in the appropriate business zone, pursuant to the zoning laws of the city, or to any motor vehicle in an appropriate storage place or depository maintained in a lawful place and manner by the city or authorized by the city.
(Ord. 913, 2024; Ord. 712 (part), 2012; Ord. 585 (part), 2003)