1305.05 TREES.

   (a)   Property owners shall maintain and trim trees, plants and shrubs on their exterior property so that:

      (1)   A height of eight feet is maintained between the lowest branches and the surface of a street, sidewalk or public way.

      (2)   Dead trees and dead or decaying tree branches do not fall on the street or sidewalk.

      (3)   A clear and unobstructed view is maintained in all directions at any street intersection, or to abate any nuisance necessary to protect life, limb or property of persons, drivers of any vehicles, or pedestrians using the street or sidewalk.

   (b)   If the Property Maintenance Enforcement Officer finds a violation of this section, he shall send a written notice of violation by first class mail to the property owner's address as indicated on the website of the Knox County Auditor; allowing ten (10) days for compliance. If the owner fails to comply, property owner shall be subject to prosecution in accordance with Section 1303.04. 

   (c)   Additionally upon failure to comply with the notice of violation, any duly authorized employee of the City of Mount Vernon or contractor hired by the City shall be authorized to enter upon the property in violation and trim or remove the tree, plant or shrub. The cost of such trimming or removal shall be recovered from the property owner as prescribed in Section 1303.07.  
(Ord. 2014-02. Passed 3-24-14.)