(A) It shall be unlawful for the owners of property within the town to allow tree branches, shrubs, vines, or hedges to overhang sidewalks or other public rights-of-way in such a manner as to obstruct the free movement of or endanger pedestrians using such sidewalks.
(B) Where tree branches, shrubs, vines, or hedges on such property are found to so obstruct sidewalks or rights-of-way, a town official shall immediately notify the owner of such property to cut such tree branches, shrubs, vines, or hedges so as to render any affected sidewalks or rights-of-way free of obstruction.
(C) Such notice shall be in writing and sent by certified mail to the occupant of such property or the owner of the property at the last known address as reflected on the real property tax records of the town. If, after diligent inquiry, no address can be found for such owner, the notice shall be posted in a conspicuous place on the property.
(D) If such tree branches, shrubs, vines, or hedges have not been cut within ten days from the date of mailing or posting of the notice, a town official shall cause the cutting down by the town’s agent of such tree branches, shrubs, vines, or hedges.
(E) Where tree branches, shrubs, vines, or hedges have been cut down on property by a town official, the cost of such cutting shall be billed to the owner of the property. If such bill is not paid, prior to issuance of the next real estate tax bill, it shall be added to the town real estate tax bill on such property and shall be a lien on such property to the same extent and effect as the real estate tax.
(1998 Code, § 50-7) (Ord. O-2004-01, passed 8-12-2003) Penalty, see § 93.99