(A) Purpose. The purpose of this subchapter is to ensure that all buildings regardless of use maintain basic minimum property maintenance standards creating a safe and healthy property and community.
(B) Building maintenance. Every building shall be maintained to be weather- and water-tight, and free from excessively peeling paint or other conditions suggestive of deterioration or inadequate maintenance. Exterior surfaces shall not have any holes or broken glass; loose, cracked or damaged shingles or siding; or other defects in the exterior finish, which admit rain, cold air, dampness, rodents, insects or vermin.
(C) Exterior finishes. Materials and practices used on exterior surfaces shall be of standard quality and appearance. Polystyrene board, tyvek and insulation board are not acceptable permanent surfaces.
(D) Ground cover. All non-farm property shall establish a permanent cover of perennial grasses or ornamental ground cover as soon as practical after any construction, and to thereafter maintain same in such condition as to substantially bind the surface of the soil and prevent erosion, whether by sheet or gullying, or by wind or water. Acceptable ground cover shall also include permanent paving and structures as approved by city codes.
(E) Fences and retaining walls. All fences and retaining walls shall be structurally sound and free of leaning or loose elements or portions that may be considered deteriorating.
(F) Piles. Mud, dirt, gravel or other debris or matter, whether organic or inorganic, deposited in a quantity judged by an enforcement officer to be a threat to public safety or to cause pollution, obstruction or siltation of drainage systems or to violate solid waste disposal regulations shall be prohibited.
(G) Roofs and drainage. Roofing construction must be of standard permanent materials. 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 water shall not be discharged in a manner that creates a public nuisance.
(H) Handrails and guards. Every handrail and guard shall be firmly fastened and capable of supporting normally imposed loads and shall be maintained in good condition.
(I) Doors. 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.
(2013 Code, § 21-100) (Ord. 14793, passed 1-8-2007)