(A) All signs and sign structures must be maintained in a structurally safe condition, and in good repair, and shall not be allowed to become a dilapidated sign, as defined by this chapter. A sign or sign structure shall constitute a nuisance if it injures or threatens to injure the public health, peace or comfort and is a nuisance per se or at common law or is otherwise declared to be a nuisance or dilapidated sign pursuant to this chapter. The city shall notify, by certified mail, the responsible party for any sign that or sign structure constitutes a nuisance determination within ten days of receipt of the notice. If the responsible party chooses not to take the instructed action or institute an appeal, the city may repair or remove the sign or sign structure, to the extent necessary to abate the nuisance. The city may charge to the responsible party all costs associated with the sign's repair or removal. An appeal of a nuisance determination shall be to the City Council.
(B) Imminent hazard. Any sign or sign structure which in the judgment of the Building Inspector has become an imminent hazard to public safety shall be repaired or removed by the responsible party without delay. Notice of the existence of the hazard shall specify the maximum time which may be allowed for repairs or removal, and the notice may be served upon the responsible party by any means available. A sign or sign structure which constitutes an imminent hazard and is not repaired or removed within the time specified in the notice shall be removed by the city and the cost of such removal shall be charged to the responsible party. If a sign or sign structure has been removed by the city as a hazardous sign and the sign remains unclaimed for a period of more than 30 days, the city may destroy, sell, or otherwise dispose of the sign. A sign or sign structure presents an imminent hazard when it constitutes a nuisance and necessitates immediate action to avoid harm to the public health or safety.
(C) Removal of sign structure. If there is no sign on a sign structure for a period of 180 consecutive days, the sign structure must be removed by the owner of the premises on which the sign is located.
(Ord. 102-16, passed - -16)