The following terms, whenever used or referred to in this chapter,
shall have the following respective meanings for the purposes of this
chapter, unless a different meaning clearly appears from the context:
BUILDING
Any building or structure or part thereof, whether used for
human habitation or otherwise, and includes any outhouses and appurtenances
belonging thereto or usually enjoyed therewith.
OWNER
The holder or holders of the title in fee simple.
PUBLIC AUTHORITY
Any officer in charge of any department of the Borough or
of the county or state relating to health, fire, building regulations
or to other activities concerning buildings in the Borough of Bellmawr.
PUBLIC OFFICER
The Construction Official of the Borough, the officer designated
to exercise the powers prescribed herein.
The public officer may determine that a building is unfit for
human habitation or occupancy or use if he finds that conditions exist
in such building which are dangerous or injurious to the health or
safety of the occupants of such building, the occupants of neighboring
buildings or other residents of the Borough of Bellmawr as a whole.
Such conditions may include the following (without limiting the generality
of the foregoing): defects therein increasing the hazards of fire,
accident or other calamities; lack of adequate ventilation, light
or sanitary facilities; dilapidation; disrepair; structural defects;
and uncleanliness.
The public officer shall have the following powers in addition
to others herein granted:
A. To investigate the building conditions in the municipality in order
to determine which buildings therein are unfit for human habitation
or occupancy or use.
B. To administer oaths and affirmations, examine witnesses and receive
evidence.
C. To enter upon premises for the purpose of making examinations, provided
that such entry shall be made in such manner as to cause the least
possible inconvenience to the persons in possession.
D. To delegate any of his functions and powers under this chapter to
such officers and agents as he may designate.
Any person who shall violate any of the provisions of this chapter
or any order promulgated hereunder shall, upon conviction, be punished
by a fine not to exceed $2,000 or imprisonment in the county jail
for a period not to exceed 90 days or a period of community service
not to exceed 90 days, or any combination thereof, and each violation
of any of the provisions of this chapter and each day that such violation
shall continue shall be deemed to be a separate and distinct offense.