(A) In addition to action authorized elsewhere in this chapter, the Administrator shall declare “unfit for human habitation” any dwelling that is so damaged, dilapidated, vermin-infested, or deficient with respect to illumination, ventilation, or basic facilities (including sanitary, electrical, plumbing, heating, and the like) that it creates a serious hazard to the health and/or safety of the occupants or the public.
(B) Said declaration shall occur after the corrective action order has been duly served, and compliance has not been effectuated.
(1) Placard. The Administrator shall post a placard on every dwelling declared unfit for human habitation. The placard shall include:
(a) The name of this municipality;
(b) A statement that said placard has been posted by the Administrator under authority of this chapter;
(c) The date of posting;
(d) An order that the dwelling must remain vacated and off-limits to all unauthorized persons until compliance with this chapter is achieved and such order to vacate is withdrawn; and
(e) A statement that defacement or removal of the placard is a violation of this chapter punishable by a fine not to exceed $500.
(2) Dwelling to be vacated. Any dwelling declared unfit for human habitation and so placarded shall be vacated within eight hours as ordered by the Administrator. Occupancy of such dwelling shall not be resumed until the Administrator has issued occupancy permit in writing and removed the placard.
(3) Administrator’s action. The Administrator shall remove the placard as soon as the defects that prompted the declaration of unfitness have been eliminated. No other person shall deface or remove said placard.
(4) Vacated dwelling to be made secure. The owner of every dwelling declared unfit for human habitation shall board-up and otherwise make said dwelling safe and secure so that it does not constitute a fire hazard or public nuisance.
(Prior Code, § 157.039)