(A) The tree inspector is authorized to inspect premises and places within the city to determine whether shade tree pests exist thereon and to investigate all reported incidents of shade tree pests. The tree inspector is authorized to take all reasonable measures to prevent the maintenance of public nuisances and may enforce the provisions relating to abatement in this section. Diagnosis of shade tree pests may be by the presence of commonly recognized symptoms; by tests as may be recommended by the commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture or the commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources; or other reliable means.
(B) Except in situations of imminent danger to human life and safety, the tree inspector shall not enter private property for the purpose of inspecting or preventing maintenance of public nuisances without the permission of the owner, resident, or other person in control of the property, unless the tree inspector has obtained a warrant or order from a court of competent jurisdiction authorizing the entry.
(C) No person, firm, or corporation shall interfere with the tree inspector or with anyone acting under the tree inspector's authority while engaged in activities authorized by this section.
(Ord. 490, passed 12-8-14)