In order to better carry out the provisions of this chapter, the City may cause to be served a notice in writing upon the owner, occupant or agent of any lot, building or premises in or upon which any nuisance may be found, or upon him who may be the cause of the nuisance, require him to abate the same in such manner as the City may direct, and within a reasonable time to be fixed in the notice; and failure to give a notice as provided in this section shall not relieve the author of any nuisance from the obligation to abate the nuisance, or from the penalty provided for the maintenance thereof. (1986 Code)