§ 20-7. Standards for vacant real property

(a) Mandatory standards. All vacant real property in the city shall be secured and maintained at a level not less than the following standards during the time period that such property remains vacant:

(1) Graffiti. All structures, equipment, walls, and fencing on the property shall be maintained free of graffiti pursuant to Chapter VII½ of Title 11.

(2) Rubbish, litter and weeds. All landscaped, concrete, dirt, or paved open areas on the real property and adjoining public parkway shall be kept clear of rubbish, litter, and weeds.

(3) Temporary fencing. Unless required by subsection (b)(2), the installation of temporary fencing is not mandated. A building permit is required for any temporary fencing installed by a responsible person. The planning division shall review the fence location and material(s), and chain link fencing shall only be used in conjunction with an opaque screening material. The responsible person shall maintain the fence in good repair and condition. If the fence is not maintained properly, the building official or fire chief may order its removal and replacement. The fence may be properly posted with no trespassing signs, and the fence shall be kept clear of all other signs, except lawfully installed signs.

(b) Additional standards. When deemed necessary by the fire chief or director, and/or in order to maintain the safety of persons or property, the following standards may also be imposed:

(1) Access points. All windows, doors, and other open access features to the structures on the real property shall be boarded up and secured in compliance with the standard attached as Exhibit A to the ordinance adopting this title. All boards visible from the building's exterior shall be painted to match the building's exterior.

(2) Temporary fencing. The property shall be fenced on all sides along the property line with a chain link fence or other type of secure fencing at a minimum height of six (6) feet from grade. The fire chief or building official may determine a greater fence height is necessary. The temporary fence shall require a building permit and shall be subject to the standards in subsection (a)(3).

(3) Security lighting. All structures which could be used for human habitation shall have an operable and effective exterior security lighting system. The front and rear yards shall each be illuminated with a minimum of one (1) light. The lighting shall be capable of illuminating the structure's exterior so as to be visible from the street or alley from dusk to dawn. However, the lights shall be shielded to avoid lighting adjacent properties.

(Ord. No. 13-04, § 1, 10-1-13 )