(a) Definitions. For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
(1) "Disabled" means any vehicle that is apparently inoperable, or extensively damaged, such damage including, but not limited to, any of the following:
A. Missing wheels, tires, motor or transmission, battery, alternator, radiator, or differential; or
B. Is in such condition as to make it a violation to operate on public streets or highways within the State of Ohio.
(2) "Vehicle" shall have the same definition as Ohio R.C. 4501(a) and shall include, but is not limited to, any motor vehicle, semi-tractor, trailer, semi-trailer, recreational vehicle, camping trailer, motor home, or farm machinery.
(3) "Vehicle parts" means any automotive parts or farm machinery parts that have been removed, or can be used in the repair or maintenance of a vehicle or a piece of farm machinery, including, but not limited to, engines, transmissions, axles, radiators, wheels, tires, doors, seats, hoods, fenders, bumpers, frames or bodies.
(b) No person shall store or permit to be stored, for a period longer than 72 hours on any lot of land situated within the boundaries of any residential district, or any district where such use is not specifically permitted by the Zoning Code of the City, any unlicensed or disabled vehicle or vehicle parts unless the same is in a completely enclosed building or garage. The 72 hours shall begin on the date and time the person has been notified in writing, either in person or by posting a notice on the vehicle, by the Chief of Police or his or her agent, that such vehicle is being stored in violation.
(c) The Chief of Police, or his or her agent, may send notice, by certified mail with return receipt requested, to the person having right to the possession of the property on which an unlicensed or disabled vehicle or vehicle parts are stored that within 72 hours of receipt of the notice, the vehicle or vehicle parts shall either be placed in an enclosed building or garage, or removed from the property.
(d) No person shall leave an unlicensed or disabled vehicle or farm machinery or vehicle parts as defined in division (a) of this section for a period longer than 72 hours after receipt of a notice as provided in division (c) of this section. The fact that the vehicle or vehicle parts are so left is prima facie evidence of willful failure to comply with this notice, and each subsequent period of 72 hours of non-compliance constitutes a separate offense.
(e) Whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor on a first offense; on a second offense, such person is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree; on each subsequent offense, such person is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
(Ord. 2002-36. Passed 6-5-02.)