[Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General
Provisions, Art. I)]
Property and vacant buildings may become a nuisance by reason of improper maintenance following damage by fire, the elements, age, general deterioration or neglect. Property and vacant structures shall be maintained in conformity with the provisions of this chapter so as to establish reasonable safeguards for the safety, health and welfare of the general public. This chapter shall apply to property and vacant structures in addition to the property maintenance requirements found in Chapter
46, Bushes, Shrubs and Trees, of the Village Code.
As used in this chapter, the following terms
shall have the meanings indicated:
VACANT STRUCTURE
Any building, structure or portion thereof designed or used
for residential or commercial purposes which has been unoccupied or
unused for a period of 60 days or longer. Specifically excluded are
all agricultural structures, such as barns and storage sheds.
Owners of property must keep their premises
clear of combustible waste, refuse and large quantities of dry vegetation
which, by reason of their proximity to buildings or structures, would
constitute a fire hazard or contribute to the spread of fire.
The owner shall keep all and every part of any
vacant structure in attractive condition and good repair, including
but not limited to the following:
A. Exterior surfaces of buildings and structures that
are not inherently resistant to deterioration shall be periodically
treated with a protective coating of paint or other suitable preservative.
B. Buildings and structures shall be secured at all doorways,
windows and other openings.
C. Buildings and structures shall be maintained free
of vermin and rodents and the grounds maintained free of overgrown
grass, foliage or noxious weeds.
D. Damage caused to the exterior of any structure by
fire, explosion or natural disaster shall be repaired within six months
of the date when such damage is sustained.
E. The provisions of this section are in addition to
the requirements for vacant structures set forth in Section 311 of
the Fire Code of the State of New York.
[Added 9-10-2003 by L.L. No. 2-2003]
When the Code Enforcement Officer finds that
an emergency exists which requires immediate attention to protect
the public health or safety, the Officer may, without notice or hearing,
after notice to the Village Mayor, issue an order reciting the existence
of such emergency and requiring that such action be taken as the Officer
deems necessary to address the emergency. Notwithstanding any other
provisions of the chapter, such order shall take effect immediately.
Any person to whom such order is directed shall comply therewith immediately
but, upon petition to the Zoning Board of Appeals or Village Justice,
shall be afforded a hearing as soon as possible. After such hearing,
the Zoning Board of Appeals or Village Justice shall continue such
order in effect or shall modify or rescind it.