The Code Official is authorized and directed to cause exterior inspections to be made of all dwellings, and the grounds surrounding such dwellings located within the City of Steubenville, with the inspection to include only those items which can be inspected by lawful means. In the event the Code Official has reason to believe that a code violation may have occurred within a dwelling unit, he is authorized and directed to inspect the remainder of the premises. The owner, operator or occupant of every dwelling unit may, upon the request of the Code Official, give the Code Official free access to the property, at reasonable times, for the purpose of inspection. In the event access to the premises is refused, the Code Official with the assistance of the Law Director may obtain an administrative warrant from a court of competent jurisdiction in order to gain access to the premises. In the event an administrative warrant cannot be obtained, then the inspection shall include only those items which can be inspected by lawful means. This chapter shall not be construed to require an owner, operator or occupant to consent to a warrantless inspection of property except as provided by law.
(Ord. 2007-98. Passed 12-18-07.)