(A) Definitions. For the purpose of this section, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
EXTERIOR. Any area of property outside a fully enclosed and covered building, except in refuse containers.
TRASH. Refuse, garbage and rubbish, as well as scrap materials, including, but not limited to, wrecked or scrapped vehicles, rags, paper products, scrap metal, used appliances, scrap plumbing supplies, or parts of any of the foregoing or similar property.
(B) Prohibition of trash accumulation. No person owning or occupying property in the city shall fail to keep the exterior area of that property free from accumulations of trash. Violation of this section constitutes a civil infraction punishable by a fine of not less than $100 for the first offense, not less than $250 and up to $500 for the second offense, and not less than $500 and up to $1,000 for each additional or subsequent offense within a two-year time period, plus costs and all other remedies available by statute. The maximum fine for any offense shall not exceed $1,000. Each day upon which such violation shall occur shall constitute a separate offense.
(C) Removal of trash by city. If property is not cleared of trash in violation of § 130.029 within ten days after notice is sent to the owner as indicated on records of the City Assessor and, if occupied, to the address of the property, the city may remove or have removed the trash from the premises. Prior to or during removal of the trash, the items removed shall be photographed and, to the extent possible, inventoried. All items having an apparent value of less than $20 may be immediately deposited in the city landfill. Items having an apparent value of $20 or more each shall be stored for five days prior to disposal or sale. The reasonable cost of the removal, storage and disposal of the trash shall be charged to the owner and assessed against the property.
(D) Stored items. Items removed and stored by the city pursuant to this chapter will be released to the owner of the premises from which they were removed upon payment of reasonable storage and removal charges.
(D) Court orders. Upon the request of the City Manager, the City Attorney or his or her designee may commence suit in a court of appropriate jurisdiction to obtain an order requiring a property owner or occupant to comply with this chapter.