(A) The provisions of this chapter shall be cited as the "Minimum Maintenance Standards for Commercial, Non-Residential, and Mixed-use Structures". The purpose of this chapter is to ensure maintenance of privately and publicly owned properties, to maintain adequate sanitation and public health, enhance property values, and to encourage development. This chapter establishes legislation which provides for administration and enforcement of, and cites minimum standards for the following:
(1) The determination of the responsibilities of owners, operators, and occupants of commercial, nonresidential, and mixed-use buildings to maintain their buildings and properties.
(2) Safety from fire and accidents.
(3) Basic equipment and facilities with respect to light, ventilation, and thermal conditions.
(B) The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all commercial, non-residential, and mixed-use properties existing at the date of the adoption of this chapter and thereafter erected, and shall apply to all conversions and future conversions of existing buildings from non-residential to residential, residential to commercial, or mixed use structures and property.
(C) Vacant or unoccupied non-residential, commercial and mixed-use structures shall not be required to meet the same interior standards as operational or occupied structures. It is not the purpose of this chapter to impede or inhibit development of non-residential properties. Therefore the interior standards of the structure shall be limited to maintaining it in a safe and sanitary condition, free of hazards, trash and debris, infestation, or any issues which potentially creates a health and safety concern to the community. All exterior and site standards of this chapter shall apply regardless of occupancy or operation of these properties.
('74 Code, § 14.7-10) (Ord. G-31-85, passed 12-23-85; Am. Ord. G-25-99, passed 12-14-99; Am. Ord. G-07-09, passed 2-24-09; Am. Ord. G-8-17, passed 4-25-17)