(a) Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for a person, firm or corporation to be in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.
(b) Notice of violation. The code official shall serve a notice of violation or order in accordance with § 1709.11 of this article.
(c) Prosecution of violation. Any person failing to comply with a notice violation or order served in accordance with § 1709.11 of this article shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor or civil infraction as determined by the local municipality, and the violation shall be deemed a strict liability offense. If the notice of violation is not complied with, the code official shall institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation, or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto. Fines and penalties will be imposed by the Municipal Court Judge. Each case shall be assessed on an individual basis by determining the expense, time, labor and fees involved. Any action taken by the authority having jurisdiction on such premises shall be charged against the real estate upon which the structure is located and shall be a lien upon such real estate.
(d) Violation penalties. Any person who shall violate a provision of this code, or fail to comply therewith, or with any of the requirements thereof, shall be prosecuted within the limits provided by state or local laws. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.
(e) Abatement of violation. The imposition of the penalties herein prescribed shall not preclude the legal officer of the jurisdiction from instituting appropriate action to restrain, correct or abate a violation, or to prevent illegal occupancy of a building, structure or premises, or to stop an illegal act, conduct, business or utilization of the building structure or premises.
(f) Property maintenance fee. There is hereby imposed a property maintenance fee for activities and services performed by the Department in carrying out the property owner’s responsibilities under this chapter; the property maintenance fee shall be $50 per hour for each employee of the town directed to perform or carry out a specific activity or service under the authority of this chapter, plus $50 for each piece of equipment used. The property maintenance fee hereby imposed shall be due and payable no later than 14 days after the service or activity occurs.
(Ord. passed 3-13-2018)