§ 14-281. Definitions.

The following words and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the following meanings:

Abandoned or vacant building shall mean:

(1)

A building, the ownership responsibilities of which have been surrendered or relinquished, whether intentionally or by failure to occupy and maintain such property;

(2)

A building for which the owner cannot be identified or located by delivery of certified mail at the last known or registered address, which persistently or repeatedly becomes unprotected or unsecured or, which is or has been occupied by unauthorized persons;

(3)

A building which is empty or remains empty and is not continuously maintained, for 21 consecutive days or longer by occupants having custody or legal right of entry to the property; or

(4)

A building which exhibits dilapidated walls, roofs, doors or windows which will fail to prevent the entry of a trespasser.

Building shall mean any structure with a roof, designed or built for the support, enclosure, shelter, or protection of persons, animals, chattels, or property of any kind.

Certificate of building closure shall mean a certificate issued by the director to the owner of an abandoned or vacant building upon compliance with the provisions of section 14-282.

Director shall mean the director of the department of environment and community development, or his or her designee.

Owner shall mean the holder of the title to property in fee simple and every mortgagee of record.

(Ord. No. 10-0498, 5-5-10)