§ 33-254 — Demolition by neglect

Sec. 33-254. - Demolition by neglect.

(a) The owner of a contributing structure located within an historic district or of a protected landmark shall not permit the contributing structure or protected landmark to fall into a serious state of disrepair so as to result in the deterioration of any exterior architectural feature. This section applies to a structure regardless of whether it is occupied or vacant. An owner shall prevent or repair the following when necessary: (1) A deteriorated or inadequate foundation; (2) Defective or deteriorated floor supports or floor supports that are insufficient to carry the loads imposed with safety; (3) Ceilings, roofs, ceiling or roof supports, or other horizontal members which sag, split, or buckle due to defect or deterioration, or are insufficient to support the loads imposed with safety; (4) Fireplaces and chimneys which bulge, or settle due to defect or deterioration, or are of insufficient size or strength to carry the loads imposed with safety; (5) Deteriorated, crumbling, or loose exterior stucco, mortar, or siding; (6) Leaks and other conditions that allow the penetration of water into the structure; and (7) Damage caused by termites and other pests that contribute to the deterioration of the structure. (b) The director shall investigate complaints regarding deteriorated or poorly maintained contributing structures and may refer complaints to the appropriate city department for investigation. If needed, the director will notify the property owner of the findings of any investigation and repairs required to comply with this article. If repairs are required, the property owner must develop a plan acceptable to the director to remedy the contributing structure or protected landmark within a specified amount of time, including plans to obtain any required certificates of appropriateness and other city permits. Failure to prepare a plan acceptable to the director or to comply with the provisions of an approved plan shall be a violation of this article.

(Ord. No. 05-969, § 19, 8-17-05; Ord. No. 07-855, § 8, 8-1-07; Ord. No. 2010-814, § 29, 10-13-2010; Ord. Noo. 2015-967, § 39, 10-7-2010; Ord. No. 2015-967, § 38, 10-7-2015)