For the purposes of this subchapter, the following definitions apply unless the context clearly requires a different meaning.
DEPARTMENT. The Town Council shall be the executive department authorized by this subchapter to administer the provisions of I.C. 36-8-2-4 et seq. and this subchapter.
ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY. The President of the Town Council or his or her designee.
HEARING AUTHORITY. The person or persons designated as such by the legislative body of the town under the authority of I.C. 36-8-2-4 et seq. The HEARING AUTHORITY shall perform those functions specified by state statute.
OWNER or LANDOWNER. The individual, corporation, partnership or other entity recorded in the records of the county’s Auditor as the OWNER of record for the purpose of being responsible for the payment of property taxes upon the real estate where weeds or rank vegetation are found to exist.
RANK VEGETATION. Any vegetative growth found growing profusely and unmanageably in excess of the heigh restrictions herein provided. Agricultural crops, including hay and pasture, shall not be considered as RANK VEGETATION.
WEED. Any deleterious, unhealthful or noxious vegetative growth found growing within the town, or any tree, grass, shrub, flower or vine which, from an aesthetic or functional viewpoint, is incompatible with the vegetation found in the vicinity, presents a danger to the public health and safety or creates by their presence a nuisance to surrounding properties. Agricultural crops, including hay and pasture, shall not be considered as WEEDS.
(Ord. 2015-12, passed 10-6-2015)