Approaches shall be located as far as possible from intersections, in order to preserve visibility at the intersection, allow a vehicle that is leaving the approach to enter the desired traffic lane before entering the intersection, permit a vehicle crossing the intersection to enter the approach in an orderly, safe manner with a minimum of interference to through traffic, and to facilitate the installation of traffic signals, signs and lighting where required.
A. On a corner lot in any zone, nothing shall be erected, placed, planted or allowed to grow in such a manner as to materially impede vision in the vision triangle which boundaries are defined by measuring from the intersection of right-of-way of two adjacent roads’ along each road and connecting the two points with a straight line, unless by some other means as approved by the City Engineer. Sight obstructions shall not extend more than three feet, or less than 10', in height above the existing center line road elevation within the vision triangle of vehicle operators. Trees within said defined area shall have their branches removed at the trunk from ground level to a minimum of 10' above ground level and shrubs or other vegetation shall be maintained to be no higher than three feet above the centerline grade of the intersecting streets; and on roads that are not State highways, a non-sight obscuring fence (i.e., chain link) may be allowed on a corner lot to the property line; provided, that: 1) no vegetative growth is allowed on said fence; 2) said fence does not encroach upon public right-of-way; and 3) said fence does not impede visibility. For the purpose of this section, “corner lot” shall mean any lot that is bound on two or more sides by either public street right-of-way or a private street.
B. Private approaches onto a public or private street shall meet the site triangle requirements as identified in the Access Management Policy.
C. Notification Of Existing Hazard: When the City determines that such a traffic hazard exists, the City shall notify the owner and order that the hazard be removed within thirty (30) days.
D. Failure To Comply: Pursuant to State law, the failure of the owner to remove the traffic hazard within the appropriate specified time shall constitute a misdemeanor and every day the owner shall fail to remove the obstruction may be considered a separate and distinct offense. Civil action may also be initiated by State or local officials to enforce vision triangle restrictions.
E. Work Performed By City; Assessment: At the City Council’s direction upon the failure, neglect or refusal of any owner so notified to remove the public nuisance, as defined, within the time specified, the City shall proceed with the work specified in the notice. The cost of the work shall be transmitted to the City Council who shall cause the same to be paid and levy a special assessment against the property. (Ord. 572, 6-13-2017; amd. Ord. 619, 4-13-2021)