The city may order a person to remove any sign erected or maintained in violation of this chapter. Thirty days notice in writing shall be given to the owner of the sign or premises, or a written notice of such violation shall be placed on the building, structure, premises or sign in violation, to remove the sign or to bring it into compliance. Three days notice shall be given for temporary signs. The city by its duly authorized designee may remove a sign immediately and without notice if, in the opinion of the White County Building Inspector, and with the consent of the Mayor, the condition of the sign is such as to present an immediate threat to the safety of the public. The cost of removal of any sign by the city shall be a debt owed to the city by the owner of the sign and the owner of the property, jointly and severally, and may be recovered in an appropriate court action by the city or by assessment against the property. The cost of removal shall also include any and all incidental expenses incurred by the city in connection with the sign's removal, including reasonable attorney fees incurred by the city.
(Ord. 2002-12, passed 10-2-02)