Chapter 4.60
NUISANCES CONSISTING OF ABANDONED OR
SUBSTANTIALLY DAMAGED NONDWELLING STRUCTURES

Sections:

4.60.010    Recitals.

4.60.020    Definitions.

4.60.030    Remedies.

4.60.040    Authority not exclusive.

4.60.010 Recitals.

The existence of abandoned or substantially damaged nondwelling structures, as defined herein, is considered an attractive nuisance, as such structures are found to constitute neighborhood blight and deterioration in the community. Further, these structures represent a significant safety hazard to the surrounding neighborhood and the community as they attract children and others to the dangerous condition of the abandoned or substantially damaged structures. (Ord. 814 § 1. Code 1997 § 17-85)

4.60.020 Definitions.

A. “Abandoned or substantially damaged nondwelling structure” means a structure without legally established utility hookups which meets any of the following:

1. Whenever the building or structure has been so damaged by fire, wind, earthquake, snow, flood, or has otherwise become so dilapidated or deteriorated as to become:

a. An attractive nuisance to children; or

b. A harbor for vagrants; or as to

c. Enable persons to resort thereto or loiter therein for the purpose of committing unlawful acts; or

2. Whenever any structure is in such a condition as to constitute a public nuisance in any manner, under any provision of law or in equity; or

3. Whenever any portion of a structure remains on a site after the demolition or destruction of the structure or whenever any structure is abandoned for a period in excess of 180 days so as to constitute such structure or portion thereof a public or attractive nuisance or hazard to the public.

B. “Nondwelling unit” means a structure not designed or intended to be used for occupancy for living and sleeping purposes. (Ord. 814 § 1. Code 1997 § 17-86)

4.60.030 Remedies.

Upon inspection and evaluation by a three person team as to whether the structure is considered an abandoned or substantially damaged nondwelling unit, as defined in this chapter, the building official will make the final determination concerning the status of the structure at issue and will recommend in written form to the zoning administrator whether to initiate the standard nuisance abatement proceeding pursuant to this chapter. The zoning administrator may then require the demolition of said structure. Depending on any extenuating circumstances, the zoning administrator may order the structure be made immediately secure until demolition occurs. Should the property owner fail to comply with the zoning administrator’s decision for abatement, the abatement shall be completed by city. Abatement costs, plus overhead, shall be completed in the form of a lien or in any other manner authorized by law. (Ord. 814 § 1. Code 1997 § 17-87)

4.60.040 Authority not exclusive.

The authority conferred by this chapter is not exclusive. Dwelling unit buildings and/or structures which may meet the criteria for abandonment pursuant to the Uniform Building Code and other applicable provisions of state law are addressed in Chapter 6.15 SLTCC and abatement of such structures shall be administered by the city building department. (Ord. 814 § 1. Code 1997 § 17-88)