Chapter 145 – Dangerous Buildings

circumstances require, to commence either the required repairs or improvements or demolition and removal of the building or structure or portions thereof, and all such work shall be completed within ninety (90) days from date of notice, unless otherwise stipulated by the enforcement officer. If necessary, such notice shall also require the building, structure, or portion thereof to be vacated forthwith and not reoccupied until the required repairs and improvements are completed, inspected, and approved by the enforcement officer. (Code of Iowa, Sec. 364.12[3h]) 1. Notice Served. Such notice shall be served by sending by certified mail to the owner of record, according to Section 364.12[3h] of the Code of Iowa, if the owner is found within the City limits. If the owner is not found within the City limits such service may be made upon the owner by registered mail or certified mail. The designated period within which said owner or person in charge is required to comply with the order of the enforcement officer shall begin as of the date the owner receives such notice. 2. Hearing. Such notice shall also advise the owner that he or she may request a hearing before the Council on the notice by filing a written request for hearing within the time provided in the notice. 145.05 CONDUCT OF HEARING. If requested, the Council shall conduct a hearing in accordance with the following: 1. Notice. The owner shall be served with written notice specifying the date, time and place of hearing. 2. Owner’s Rights. At the hearing, the owner may appear and show cause why the alleged nuisance shall not be abated. 3. Determination. The Council shall make and record findings of fact and may issue such order as it deems appropriate.† 145.06 POSTING OF SIGNS. The enforcement officer shall cause to be posted at each entrance to such building a notice to read: “DO NOT ENTER. UNSAFE TO OCCUPY. CITY OF TIFFIN, IOWA.” Such notice shall remain posted until the required demolition, removal or repairs are completed. Such notice shall not be removed without written permission of the enforcement officer and no person shall enter the building except for the purpose of making the required repairs or of demolishing the building. 145.07 RIGHT TO DEMOLISH; MUNICIPAL INFRACTION. In case the owner fails, neglects, or refuses to comply with the notice to repair, rehabilitate, or to demolish and remove the building or structure or portion thereof, the Council may order the owner of the building prosecuted as a violator of the provisions of this chapter and may order the enforcement officer to proceed with the work specified in such notice. A statement of the cost † EDITOR’S NOTE: Suggested forms of notice and of a resolution and order of the Council for the administration of this chapter are provided in the APPENDIX to this Code of Ordinances. Caution is urged in the use of this procedure. We recommend you review the situation with your attorney before initiating procedures and follow his or her recommendation carefully.