If the Code Official finds that a premises contains an unsafe structure,
unsafe equipment, or a structure unfit for human occupancy or use, then he/she
may order the structure or part of it to be placarded, vacated and closed,
or the equipment to be placarded and placed out of service. If the Code Official
finds that repair or modification of the structure is not feasible, then the
Code Official may, after consultation with the County Attorney, order the
structure to be demolished, razed and removed.
A condemned structure or equipment may not be reoccupied or placed back
in service without the written approval of the Code Official.
If the property owner fails to comply with an order to vacate, close
or demolish a condemned structure or to place out of service condemned equipment
within the time period specified in an order, then the Code Official, after
consultation with the County Attorney, may cause these to be accomplished
through any available public agency or private persons. The cost shall be
charged against the real estate upon which the structure or equipment is located
and shall be a lien upon the real estate.
In the event of failure to comply with a demolition order within the
prescribed time, the County Commissioners or the Code Official may sell the
salvage and valuable materials at the highest price obtainable. The proceeds
of such sale shall be applied toward all costs necessary to complete the demolition,
razing and removal. The balance, if any, shall be paid over to the property
owner.
A person may not be displaced by enforcement under this Article unless
alternative housing of comparable affordability is available within a reasonable
distance of the vacated premises.
