§ 17.48.020. Findings—Purpose.

A.

There exists in the City structures used for nonresidential use which are, or may become in the future, substandard with respect to structure, equipment or maintenance. These conditions, which include, but are not limited to, structural deterioration, lack of maintenance and appearance of exterior of premises, infestation, lack of essential heating and plumbing, lack of maintenance or upkeep of essential utilities and facilities, existence of fire hazards, inadequate provisions for light and air, and insanitary conditions, constitute a menace to the health, safety, welfare and reasonable comfort of the citizens and inhabitants of the City. It is found and declared further that by reason of lack of maintenance, and because of progressive deterioration, certain properties have the further effect of creating blighting conditions and initiating slums and that if these are not curtailed and removed, the conditions will grow and spread and will necessitate in time the expenditure of large amounts of public funds to correct and eliminate. Through timely regulations and restrictions, as contained in this chapter, the growth of slums and blight may be prevented, the neighborhood and property values maintained, the desirability and amenities of residential and nonresidential uses and neighborhoods enhanced, and the public health, safety, and welfare are protected and fostered.

B.

The purpose of this chapter is to protect the public health, safety, and welfare by establishing minimum standards governing the maintenance, appearance, condition, and occupancy of nonresidential premises; to establish minimum standards governing utilities, facilities, and other physical components and conditions essential to make the facilities fit for occupancy and use; to fix certain responsibilities and duties upon owners and operators, and distinct and separate responsibilities and duties upon occupants; to fix penalties for the violations of this chapter; to provide for the right of access across adjoining premises to permit repairs; and to provide for the repair, demolition, or vacation of premises unfit for use. This chapter is remedial and essential for the public interest and it is intended that this chapter be construed liberally to effectuate the purposes as stated in this section.

(Prior code § 12-17)

(Ord. No. O-23-12, § I, 7-23-2012)