In the course of investigating a complaint hereunder,
the Chief Officer of the Agency shall be authorized to make or cause
to be made inspections to determine the condition of premises in order
to safeguard the health, safety and welfare of the public. The Chief
Officer of the Agency or his designated representatives shall be authorized
to enter any premises at any reasonable time during business hours
or at such other time as may be necessary in an emergency, for the
purpose of performing his duties under this chapter. Inspections herein
authorized shall be limited to the provisions of this chapter.
Access to all parts of any dwelling, dwelling unit and premises shall be provided by the owner, operator, agent or occupant thereof to personnel authorized in § 77-20 for the purpose of making such inspections at any reasonable time during business hours or at such other times as may be necessary in an emergency. Whenever the Chief Officer shall have cause to suspect that a condition exists on the premises that is detrimental or injurious to the health, safety or welfare of the public or the occupants thereof, he may demand entry regardless of the consent of the owner or occupant and if the owner or occupant shall refuse or delay in opening said premises for a full and free inspection, he shall be guilty of a misdemeanor for each and every refusal and the Chief Officer may adopt such other means to enforce entry as may be available under law.
Inspectors and authorized personnel of the Agency
shall be supplied with official identification and shall exhibit such
identification when entering any premises and all parts thereof.
