(A) Declaration of nuisance. Buildings, fences, and other structures that have been so poorly maintained that their physical condition and appearance detract from the surrounding neighborhood are declared to be public nuisances because they:
(1) Are unsightly;
(2) Decrease adjoining landowners and occupants' enjoyment of their property and neighborhood; and
(3) Adversely affect property values and neighborhood patterns.
(B) Standards.
(1) A building, fence, or other structure is a public nuisance if it does not comply with applicable Hazardous Structure and Housing Maintenance provisions of Chapter 116 or the International Property Maintenance Code, which is hereby adopted as if fully set forth herein.
(2) A building, fence or other structure is also a public nuisance if it does not comply with the following requirements:
(a) All exterior walls shall be free from holes, breaks, and loose or rotting materials, and maintained weatherproof and properly surface coated where required to prevent deterioration;
(b) All exterior surfaces, including but not limited to, doors, door and window frames, cornices, porches, trim, balconies, decks, and fences shall be maintained in good condition. Exterior wood surfaces, other than decay-resistant woods, shall be protected from the elements and decay by painting or other protective covering or treatment. Peeling, flaking and chipped paint shall be eliminated and surfaces repainted. All siding and masonry joints as well as those between the building envelope and the perimeter of windows, doors, and skylights shall be maintained weather resistant and water tight. All metal surfaces subject to rust or corrosion shall be coated to inhibit such rust and corrosion and all surfaces with rust and corrosion shall be stabilized and coated to inhibit future rust and corrosion. Oxidation stains shall be removed from exterior surfaces. Surfaces designed for stabilization by oxidation are exempt from this requirement;
(c) Every window, skylight, door and frame shall be kept in sound condition, good repair and weather tight. All glazing materials shall be maintained free from cracks and holes;
(d) All exterior doors, door assemblies and hardware shall be maintained in good condition. Locks at all entrances to dwelling units, rooming units, and guestrooms shall tightly secure the door;
(e) All cornices, belt courses, corbels, terra cotta trim, wall facings, and similar decorative features shall be maintained in good repair with proper anchorage and in a safe condition;
(f) The roof and flashing shall be sound, tight, and not have defects that admit rain. Roof drainage shall be adequate to prevent dampness or deterioration in the walls or interior portion of the structure. Roof drains, gutters and downspouts shall be maintained in good repair and free from obstructions. Roof water may not be discharged in a manner that creates a public nuisance;
(g) All chimneys, cooling towers, smoke stacks, and similar appurtenances shall be maintained structurally sound, and in good repair. All exposed surfaces of metal or wood shall be protected from the elements against decay or rust by periodic application of weather-coating materials, such as paint or similar surface treatment; and
(h) All foundation walls shall be maintained plumb and free from open cracks and breaks and shall be kept in such condition as to prevent the entry of rodents and other pests.
(C) Extension of time. In the case of demonstrated hardship due to sources beyond the control of the property owner (including, but not limited to, extreme weather conditions; reasonably unforeseen material, equipment or labor shortages; vandalism; or theft), the time allowed for exterior construction and finishes may be extended at the sole discretion of the city upon written appeal.
(Ord. 2014-14, passed 12-1-2014)
Penalty, see § 10.99