After declaration of a disaster, the primary mission of the city will be to protect lives and property, restore governmental services and clear public streets. Depending on the magnitude of the disaster and after accomplishment of the primary mission, resources may be available to the city that may not be available to a private property owner. The intent and purpose of this chapter is to establish a process by which the city may evaluate and, if necessary, remove debris from along privately owned streets, roads, roadways, and other private property in the event of an immediate threat to life, public health, and safety after a significant disaster. While the city recognizes that, as a general proposition, the removal of debris from private property is the responsibility of the property owner, there are occasions when, because of the magnitude of the disaster and the threat posed to life, health, and safety, there may be a compelling need to remove debris from private streets, roads, and roadways and other private property as described in this chapter.
(Ord. 1293, passed 7-24-08)