(A) Notice of unsafe and unlawful signs. When any sign becomes insecure, in danger of falling, or otherwise unsafe, or if any sign is installed, erected, or maintained in violation of any of the provisions of this chapter, the owner thereof or the person or firm maintaining it shall upon written notice from the Department, forthwith in the case of immediate danger and in any other case within not more than ten days, make such sign conform to the provisions of this chapter or shall remove it. If within ten days the order is not complied with, the Department may cause the removal of the sign at the expense of the owner or lessee.
(B) Unlawful signs. The location or positioning of signs shall be considered unlawful if such sign is erected, constructed or maintained in violation of the Kentucky Building Code and/or the Land Development Code or causes a violation of either of these codes. A sign will also be considered unlawful if such sign is erected or constructed without prior approval and permit from the Department.
(C) Removal of unsafe and unlawful signs. Whenever the Department determines that an emergency exists which requires immediate action to protect the public health or safety, the Department may without notice or hearing, order that such actions be taken, including, but not limited to repair of or removal of such sign.
(D) The amount of the costs of any repairs, or removal, carried out by the Metro Government pursuant to this section, including all costs for labor, materials, and administrative costs of 15% of the above, shall be charged against the owner of the real estate upon which the sign is located and/or the owner or lessee of the sign. If the owner or lessee does not make payment within 30 days of bring notified by the Department, a lien for the amount plus filing and releasing fees will be placed against the real estate. Such lien will bear an interest rate of 18% annually until a payment is made in full.
(1999 Lou. Code, § 156.04) (Lou. Ord. No. 93-1980, approved 6-17-1980; Lou. Am. Ord. No. 208-1990, approved 8-30-1990; Lou. Metro Am. Ord. No. 144-2007, approved 7-30-2007) Penalty, see § 155.99