(A) A neglected sign is a sign which contains missing panels, burned out lights, missing letters, rust, loose parts, is faded from its natural color, or is in a similar state of disrepair.
(B) An abandoned sign is a sign which, for at least six (6) months does not identify or advertise a bona fide business, lessor, service, owner, product, or activity; or pertains to a time, event, or purpose which no longer applies.
(C) Abandoned signs and neglected signs shall be considered a public nuisance and are prohibited by this chapter. Upon written notification to the permit holder by the building official, such abandoned signs shall be removed from the premises and neglected signs shall be repaired or removed from the premises by the property owner, agent, or person having beneficial use of the land, building, or structure upon which such sign is located. The notification shall state that the offending sign shall be repaired or removed by the owner, agent or person having beneficial use of the land, building or structure upon which such sign is located within ten (10) days after written notification to do so by the building official. The notification shall further state that if the sign is not removed or repaired, a citation may be issued and the city may resort to any civil remedy available to remove or repair the sign, up to and including impoundment. If any sign is determined to present an immediate danger to public health, safety, or welfare, the city may remove it immediately. Within ten (10) days of the removal of the sign, the city shall notify the owner of the property on which the sign was located of the reasons for removal of the sign.
(D) It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation receiving such written notice to fail to comply with the direction of the notice. In the event failure to comply with such notice provided under subsection (C) of this section, the building official is hereby authorized to cause the removal and impoundment of such sign. Any expenses incident thereto shall be the responsibility of the owner, agent or person having beneficial use of the land, building or structure upon which such sign was located. (Ord. 2957, 12-8-2008)