(a) General. When a structure or part thereof is found by the Code Official to be unsafe, or when a structure or part thereof is found unfit for human occupancy or use, or is found unlawful, it may be condemned pursuant to the provisions of this Code and may be placarded. Such a structure or part thereof shall be vacated within thirty days after notice of such condemnation has been given, and shall not be reoccupied without the approval of the Code Official. In addition, unsafe equipment shall be placarded and placed out of service.
(1) An unsafe structure is one in which all or part thereof is found to be dangerous to life, health, property or the safety of the public or its occupants because it is so damaged, decayed, dilapidated, structurally unsafe, or of such faulty construction or unstable foundation that it is likely to partially or completely collapse.
(2) Unsafe equipment includes any boiler, heating equipment, elevator, moving stairway, electrical wiring or device, flammable liquid containers or other equipment on the premises or within the structure which is in such disrepair or condition that it is found to be a hazard to life, health, property or safety of the public or occupants of the premises or structures. Unsafe equipment may contribute to the finding that the structure is unsafe or unfit for human occupancy or use.
(3) A structure is unfit for human occupancy or use whenever the Code Official finds that it is unsafe, unlawful or because of the degree in which it lacks maintenance or is in disrepair, is unsanitary, vermin or rodent infested, contains filth and contamination, or lacks ventilation, illumination, sanitary or heating facilities, or other essential equipment required by this Code, or, because its location constitutes a hazard to its occupants or to the public.
(4) An unlawful structure is one found in whole or in part to be erected, altered or occupied contrary to law.
(b) Closing of Vacant Structures. If a structure or part thereof is vacant and/or unfit for human habitation, occupancy, or use and is not in danger of structural collapse, the Code Official may pose a placard of condemnation on the premise and may order the structure closed up with plywood so as to prevent such structure from becoming a public nuisance. Upon failure of the owner to close up to condemned structure within the time specified in the order, the Code Official shall cause such premises to be closed up with plywood through any available public agency or by contract or arrangement by private persons, and, the cost thereof shall be charged against the real estate upon which the condemned structure is located and shall thereafter become a lien upon such real estate. In addition, any structure which is ordered to be closed up shall have at least one no trespassing sign posted in a prominent place on each of its outside walls, and, shall further be characterized by plywood which has been painted a solid color compatible with the color of the condemned structure.
(Ord. 10-87. Passed 4-6-87.)