(A) Whenever it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the provisions of or perform any duty imposed by this chapter or when there is reasonable cause to believe that there exists in any building or upon any premises any violations of the provisions of this chapter or state law, the Humane Officer, Code Enforcement Officer, Building Inspector or police officer is authorized at all reasonable times to inspect the same for compliance with provisions of this chapter or any state law provided that:
(1) If the property is occupied, the officer shall first present proper credentials to the occupant and request entry explaining the reasons therefore; and
(2) If the property is unoccupied, the officer shall make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other persons having control of the property and request entry explaining the reason therefore.
(B) In the event a Code Enforcement Officer, Building Inspector, Police Officer or Humane Officer has reasonable cause to believe that keeping or maintaining of an animal is so hazardous, unsafe or dangerous or constitutes a public nuisance as to require immediate inspection to safeguard the animal or the public health or safety, the officer shall first present proper credentials and request entry explaining the reasons therefore. If entry is refused or cannot be obtained because the owner or other person having charge or control of the property cannot be found after reasonable search, the officer shall have recourse to secure lawful entry and inspection of the property.
(1991 Draft Code, § 6-30) (Ord. 1-90, passed 2-28-1990)