All buildings and the exterior of all premises shall be properly maintained to achieve a presentable appearance and to avoid blighting effects and hazardous conditions.
(a) Exterior Space. The exterior open space around each dwelling shall be maintained or improved so as to provide for:
(1) The immediate diversion of water away from buildings and proper drainage of the lot;
(2) Grass, plantings or other suitable ground cover to prevent soil erosion which is or may become detrimental to the structures, lot use or adjacent lots and structures;
(3) Yard walks, parking areas and driveways of a concrete, asphalt, paver or similar surface which are of sound construction and properly maintained; and
(4) Exterior steps which are of sound construction, properly maintained and free of hazardous conditions.
(b) Maintenance. The exterior of all premises and of every structure thereon, including but not limited to walls, roofs, chimneys, drains, towers, porches, landings, fire escapes, stairs, signs, windows, doors, awnings, and all surfaces thereof, shall be maintained so as to avoid any blighting effects on neighboring properties and shall be painted or protected where necessary for the purpose of preservation. All canopies, signs, awnings, exterior stairways, fire escapes, standpipes, exhaust ducts, porches, balconies and similar overhanging extensions, where exposed to public view, shall be maintained in good condition and shall not show evidence of ripping, tearing or deterioration.
(c) Fences and Retaining Walls. All fences, retaining walls or similar structures shall be anchored firmly in the ground, shall be constructed in a workmanlike manner and shall be maintained in that same manner so that such approved fences, retaining walls or similar structures shall always be in a state of good structural repair. If any fence, retaining wall or similar structure is found not to be in a state of good structural repair, it shall be removed, replaced or repaired as required. Except when constructed of materials that have been designed or manufactured to remain untreated, all fences shall be treated periodically with paint or chemicals so as to retard deterioration.
(d) Yards. All yards, courts and lots shall be kept free of overgrown grasses, debris and other materials which may cause a fire, health or safety hazard or general unsightliness.
(e) Hazards. Hazards and unsanitary conditions shall be eliminated.
(f) Occupancy. No temporary buildings, trailers, recreational vehicles, tents or garages shall be used temporarily or permanently as a residence in the course of construction.
(g) Storage. Except as provided for in other regulations of the City, all outdoor storage of any kind shall be prohibited.
(h) Drainage. All portions of all premises shall be so graded that there is no pooling of water or recurrent entrance of water into any part of any building, except when such pooling or retention of water is part of a plan approved by the Building Inspector. All condensate and waste cooling water shall be appropriately discharged into an approved drainage system.
(i) Drainage Swales. Swales are to be maintained by the owners of the parcels on which they are located, and at no time shall any person plant shrubs and/or trees, or discharge, empty or place any material, fill or waste into any swale, so as to divert or impede drainage flow. Small swales can be mowed as part of the yard. Larger swales in meadow situations should be mowed less frequently in order to allow grasses to grow taller to retard run-off and prevent erosion. Swales in woodland areas should be left in their natural condition leaving understory growth to retard run-off and prevent erosion.
(Ord. 1-95. Passed 1-5-95.)