At the time of adoption of this Article, all owners of realty within the City of Martinsburg that possess a vacant structure, as defined in Section 1718.03, shall register the same with the Planning Department of the City. For those structures that qualify as a vacant structure after the adoption of this Article, the owner thereof shall be required to register the structure with the Planning Department within 15 days after the structure meets the definition of a vacant structure. The registration form shall require information from the registrant deemed necessary by the Building Code official, Fire Chief, and Police Chief of the City, so as to ensure that the purpose of this Article is met. Specifically, the above named City officers shall determine the structural integrity of the building, determine the repairs necessary to ensure its structural integrity, that it will be safe for entry by fire fighters and police officers in time of emergency, and that the building and its contents do not present a hazard to the public during the time the building remains vacant. The above named officers shall have the authority to issue orders to the owner for corrective action deemed necessary. The Building Code official and Fire Chief shall rely upon the West Virginia State Building Code and Fire Code, as well as other applicable law, for guidance during any such structural review. (Ord. 2009-15. Passed 9-8-09.)
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