(A) The following signs are subject to removal in accordance with the procedures hereof:
(1) Signs which are found to be unsafe and capable of creating a hazard to persons or property;
(2) Signs which are prohibited under § 155.41;
(3) Signs which are erected without a permit, if required under the sign code;
(4) Signs for which required fees have not been paid; and
(5) Signs that are not maintained in accordance with the requirements of this code.
(B) The enforcement official shall give written notice to the owner or the managing agent of the property on which any such sign is located, directing its removal within seven days and informing the owner or managing agent that, if the sign is not removed within the designated period, the enforcement official shall cause it to be removed and the costs charged as a special tax bill. If the sign is not timely removed, the enforcement official shall cause the same to be removed and certify the costs to the Village Clerk. The Village Clerk shall issue a special tax bill therefore against the property, which shall be a first lien on the property from the date of issuance until paid and shall be prima facie evidence of the recitals therein and of its validity. No clerical error or informality in the tax bill or in the proceedings leading to its issuance shall be a defense. Any tax bill, if not paid, shall bear interest at the rate of 10% per annum.
(C) The enforcement official is authorized to go upon any premises for the purpose of removal of any sign under the provisions hereof. Signs so removed shall be retained by the village for a period of 30 days and, if payment of all expenses of the village in connection with the removal are paid within the period, shall be returned to the owner. If not so claimed within such period of time, the village may dispose of the sign in any manner by destroying or selling same.
(D) In addition to the procedures herein authorized, any person failing to remove any sign, upon notification to do so, shall, upon conviction, be subject to the penalties provided for violation of village ordinances.
(Ord. 2002-09, passed 4-3-02)