A. Weeds:
1. Weeds on real property not in close proximity to buildings or not creating a nuisance or fire hazard may be exempted by the inspector, upon advice and concurrence of the fire marshal, from the weed control requirements of this chapter. Such properties would include, but not be limited to, areas considered wetlands or in a pristine state and contributing to the habitat of non-injurious animals.
2. If the inspector determines that the large size of the property makes the cutting of all weeds impractical, the inspector may issue an order limiting the required cutting of weeds to a firebreak of not less than fifteen feet (15') in width around any structures and around the complete perimeter of the property. In determining an exception, the inspector will consider the size of the property, the topography of the property, proximity to structures on other property, accessibility to the property by others, any conditions which could contribute to increased fire hazards, and the seriousness of the weed problem.
B. Vehicles/Vessels: Wrecked or inoperable vehicles/vessels which are owned by the owner or occupant of the property on which they are located and which the owner desires to restore or repair in the immediate future may be exempted from the provisions of this chapter by obtaining a permit for each such vehicle/vessel for a period of six (6) months. A total of four (4) extensions may be obtained, provided the requirements as stated hereinafter are met:
1. Each such permit or extension shall be obtained from the department after giving proof of ownership and filling out an application on a form to be provided which gives sufficient information to readily identify the vehicle/vessel and property in question and paying a fee as established by resolution.
2. Extensions may be obtained by meeting the terms of subsection B1 of this section and by submitting to the department a statement indicating an understanding of the circumstances and agreement with the extension signed by at least seventy five percent (75%) of the owners or occupants of property within five hundred feet (500') of the applicant’s property.
3. Each such vehicle/vessel shall remain covered by a view obstructing tarp or similar cover at all times, except when actual restoration or repair work is in progress.
4. In the event any part of the vehicle/vessel is raised off the ground other than by wheels/trailer firmly attached to the vehicle/vessel, it shall be supported in such a manner as to assure it cannot be readily dislodged or fall from such support.
5. A copy of the permit shall be kept with the vehicle/vessel at all times and shall be shown to the inspector upon demand.
6. Failure to comply with the terms of this subsection shall void the permit and cause the vehicle/vessel to be declared a nuisance and subject to the penalty and abatement provisions of this chapter. (Ord. 243-18, 3-20-2018; amd. Ord. 274-23, 1-17-2023)