§ 47-21.16. Removal of trees and dead trees constituting a public nuisance.

A.

The existence of any tree, dead tree or stump upon any parcel of land within the city which threatens or endangers the public health, safety or welfare, or which could foreseeably cause the spread of disease or infestation to surrounding plant life, is hereby prohibited and declared to be a public nuisance.

B.

The department shall give notice to the owner upon whose parcel of land such nuisance is located, advising the owner of the same.

C.

Such notice shall be served by personal service or certified mail. In the event that the address of the owner is unknown or such certified mail is returned unclaimed or refused, such notice may be served by posting the same in a conspicuous place on the premises upon which the nuisance is located.

D.

Such notice shall command the owner to forthwith remove such tree, dead tree or stump no later than thirty (30) days after receipt or posting of the aforementioned notice, whichever is applicable. In the event that such nuisance is not removed by the owner, the city may remove the same or have the same removed and the cost thereof shall constitute a charge and lien against the owner's property to the same extent and character as the lien now granted by law for special assessments for the cost of local improvements.

E.

Liens shall be forthwith due and payable, unless the time for payment thereof shall be extended by the city commission, and there shall be applicable thereto the same penalties and rights for sale and forfeiture as may be provided by law for special assessments for the cost of local improvements.

F.

Each day any such violation exists shall constitute a separate offense.

(Ord. No. C-97-19, § 1(47-21.13), 6-18-97; Ord. No. C-15-09, § 16, 2-17-15 )

Note— Formerly § 47-21.13.