[HISTORY: Adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Montour 12-13-2022 by L.L. No.
3-2022.[1] Amendments noted where applicable.]
[1]
Editor's Note: This local law also superseded former Ch. 83,
Construction Codes, Uniform, adopted 2-13-2007 by L.L. No. 1-2007, as amended.
This chapter provides for the administration and enforcement
of the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (the
Uniform Code) and the State Energy Conservation Construction Code
(the Energy Code) in the Town of Montour. This chapter is adopted
pursuant to § 10 of the Municipal Home Rule Law. Except
as otherwise provided in the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, other
state law, or other section of this chapter, all buildings, structures,
and premises, regardless of use or occupancy, are subject to the provisions
of this chapter.
In this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings
shown in this section:
An area in any building, or in any portion of a building,
that is primarily used or intended to be used for gathering 50 or
more persons for uses including, but not limited to, amusement, athletic,
entertainment, social, or other recreational functions; patriotic,
political, civic, educational, or religious functions; food or drink
consumption; awaiting transportation; or similar purposes.
A building permit, construction permit, demolition permit,
or other permit that authorizes the performance of work. The term
"building permit" shall also include a building permit which is renewed,
amended, or extended pursuant to any provision of this chapter.
A document issued by the Code Enforcement Officer stating
that work was done in compliance with approved construction documents
and the codes.
A document issued by the Code Enforcement officer certifying
that the building or structure, or portion thereof, complies with
the approved construction documents that have been submitted to, and
approved by, the Code Enforcement Officer and indicating that the
building or structure, or portion thereof, is in a condition suitable
for occupancy.
The Code Enforcement Officer appointed pursuant to § 83-3B of this chapter.
Includes the Code Enforcement Officer and all inspectors.
The Uniform Code and Energy Code.
The New York State Energy Conservation Construction Code
adopted pursuant to Article 11 of the Energy Law.
The 2020 Fire Code of New York State as currently incorporated
by reference in 19 NYCRR Part 1225.
An inspection performed to determine compliance with the
applicable provisions of 19 NYCRR Part 1225 and the publications incorporated
therein by reference and the applicable provisions of 19 NYCRR Part
1226 and the publications incorporated therein by reference.
A solid, liquid, or gas associated with semiconductor manufacturing
that has a degree-of-hazard rating in health, flammability, or instability
of Class 3 or 4, as ranked by NFPA 704 (Standard Systems for Identification
of the Hazards of Materials for Emergency Response), and which is
used directly in research, laboratory, or production processes which
have, as their end product, materials that are not hazardous.
An inspector appointed pursuant to § 83-3D of this chapter.
Vehicles that contain cooking equipment that produces smoke
or grease-laden vapors for the purpose of preparing and serving food
to the public. Vehicles intended for private recreation shall not
be considered mobile food preparation vehicles.
A permit issued pursuant to § 83-10 of this chapter. The term "operating permit" shall also include an operating permit which is renewed, amended, or extended pursuant to any provision of this chapter.
An order issued by the Code Enforcement Officer pursuant to § 83-17A of this chapter.
The person to whom a building permit has been issued.
Includes an individual, corporation, limited-liability company,
partnership, limited partnership, business trust, estate, trust, association,
or any other legal or commercial entity of any kind or description.
The 2020 Property Maintenance Code of New York State as currently
incorporated by reference in 19 NYCRR Part 1226.
The 2020 Residential Code of New York State as currently
incorporated by reference in 19 NYCRR Part 1220.
The reconstruction, replacement, or renewal of any part of
an existing building for the purpose of its maintenance or to correct
damage.
An order issued pursuant to § 83-6 of this chapter.
A building used, in whole or in part, for the collection,
storage, or processing of maple sap into maple syrup and/or maple
sugar.
A certificate issued pursuant to § 83-7D of this chapter.
The Town of Montour.
The Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code, Subchapter
A of Chapter XXXIII of Title 19 of the NYCRR, adopted pursuant to
Article 18 of the Executive Law.
A.Â
The office of Code Enforcement Officer is hereby created. The Code
Enforcement Officer shall administer and enforce all the provisions
of the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, and this chapter. The Code Enforcement
Officer shall have the following powers and duties:
(1)Â
To receive, review, and approve or disapprove applications for building
permits, certificates of occupancy, certificates of compliance, temporary
certificates of occupancy, and operating permits, and the plans, specifications,
and construction documents submitted with such applications;
(2)Â
Upon approval of such applications, to issue building permits, certificates
of occupancy, certificates of compliance, temporary certificates of
occupancy, and operating permits, and to include in terms and conditions
as the Code Enforcement Officer may determine to be appropriate building
permits, certificates of occupancy, certificates of compliance, temporary
certificates of occupancy, and operating permits;
(3)Â
To conduct construction inspections; inspections to be made prior
to the issuance of certificates of occupancy, certificates of compliance,
temporary certificates of occupancy, and operating permits; fire safety
and property maintenance inspections; inspections incidental to the
investigation of complaints; and all other inspections required or
permitted under any provision of this chapter;
(4)Â
To issue stop-work orders;
(5)Â
To review and investigate complaints;
(7)Â
To maintain records;
(8)Â
To collect fees as set by the Town Board;
(9)Â
To pursue administrative and other enforcement actions and proceedings;
(10)Â
In consultation with legal counsel for the Town, to pursue such legal
actions and proceedings as may be necessary to enforce the Uniform
Code, the Energy Code, and this chapter, or to abate or correct conditions
not in compliance with the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, or this
chapter; and
(11)Â
To exercise all other powers and fulfill all other duties conferred
upon the Code Enforcement Officer by this chapter.
B.Â
The Code Enforcement Officer shall be appointed by resolution of
the Town Board. The Code Enforcement Officer shall possess background
experience related to building construction or fire prevention and
shall, within the time prescribed by law, obtain such basic training,
in-service training, advanced in-service training, and other training
as the State of New York shall require for code enforcement personnel,
and the Code Enforcement Officer shall obtain certification from the
Department of State pursuant to the Executive Law and the regulations
promulgated thereunder.
C.Â
In the event that the Code Enforcement Officer is unable to serve
as such for any reason, another individual shall be appointed by the
Town Board to serve as Acting Code Enforcement Officer. The Acting
Code Enforcement Officer shall, during the term of their appointment,
exercise all powers and fulfill all duties conferred upon the Code
Enforcement Officer by this chapter.
D.Â
One or more inspectors may be appointed by resolution of the Town
Board to act under the supervision and direction of the Code Enforcement
Officer and to assist the Code Enforcement Officer in the exercise
of the powers and fulfillment of the duties conferred upon the Code
Enforcement Officer by this chapter. Each inspector shall, within
the time prescribed by law, obtain such basic training, in-service
training, advanced in-service training, and other training as the
State of New York shall require for code enforcement personnel, and
each inspector shall obtain certification from the Department of State
pursuant to the Executive Law and the regulations promulgated thereunder.
E.Â
The compensation, schedules and other terms and conditions of employment
for the Code Enforcement Officer and inspectors shall be fixed from
time to time by the Town Supervisor.
A.Â
Building permits required. Except as otherwise provided in Subsection B of this section, a building permit shall be required for any work which must conform to the Uniform Code and/or the Energy Code, including, but not limited to, the construction, enlargement, alteration, improvement, removal, relocation, or demolition of any building or structure, or any portion thereof, and the installation of a solid-fuel-burning heating appliance, chimney, or flue in any dwelling unit. No person shall commence any work for which a building permit is required without first having obtained a building permit from the Code Enforcement Officer.
B.Â
Exemptions. No building permit shall be required for work in any
of the following categories:
(1)Â
Construction or installation of one-story detached structures associated
with one- or two-family dwellings or multiple single-family dwellings
(townhouses), which are not used for dwelling purposes and the gross
floor area of which does not exceed 144 square feet;
(2)Â
Construction of temporary sets and scenery associated with motion
picture, television and theater uses;
(3)Â
Installation of window awnings supported by an exterior wall of a
one- or two-family dwelling or multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses);
(4)Â
Installation of partitions or movable cases less than five feet nine
inches in height;
(5)Â
Painting, wallpapering, tiling, carpeting or other similar finish
work;
(6)Â
Installation of listed portable electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation
or cooling equipment or appliances;
(7)Â
Replacement of any equipment, provided the replacement does not alter
the equipment's listing or render it inconsistent with the equipment's
original specifications; or
(8)Â
Repairs, provided that the work does not have an impact on fire and
life safety, such as a) any part of the structural system; b) the
required means of egress; or c) the fire protection system or the
removal from service of any part of the fire protection system for
any period of time.
C.Â
Exemption not deemed authorization to perform noncompliant work. The exemption from the requirement to obtain a building permit for work in any category set forth in Subsection B of this section shall not be deemed an authorization for work to be performed in violation of the Uniform Code or the Energy Code.
D.Â
Applications for building permits. Applications for a building permit
shall be made, in writing, on a form provided by or otherwise acceptable
to the Code Enforcement Officer. The application shall be signed by
the owner of the property where the work is to be performed or an
authorized agent of the owner. The application shall include such
information as the Code Enforcement Officer deems sufficient to permit
a determination by the Code Enforcement Officer that the intended
work complies with all applicable requirements of the Uniform Code
and the Energy Code. The application shall include or be accompanied
by the following information and documentation:
(1)Â
A description of the location, nature, extent, and scope of the proposed
work;
(2)Â
The Tax Map number and the street address of any affected building
or structure;
(3)Â
The occupancy classification of any affected building or structure;
(4)Â
Where applicable, a statement of special inspections prepared in
accordance with the provisions of the Uniform Code; and
(5)Â
At least two sets of construction documents (drawings and/or specifications)
which:
(a)Â
Describe the location, nature, extent, and scope of the proposed
work;
(b)Â
Show that the proposed work will conform to the applicable provisions
of the codes;
(c)Â
Show the location, construction, size, and character of all
portions of the means of egress;
(d)Â
Show a representation of the building thermal envelope;
(e)Â
Show structural information, including but not limited to braced
wall designs, the size, section, and relative locations of structural
members, design loads, and other pertinent structural information;
(f)Â
Show the proposed structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical,
fire protection, and other service systems of the building;
(g)Â
Include a written statement indicating compliance with the Energy
Code;
(h)Â
Include a site plan, drawn to scale and drawn in accordance
with an accurate boundary survey, showing the size and location of
new construction and existing structures and appurtenances on the
site, distances from lot lines, the established street grades and
the proposed finished grades, and, as applicable, flood hazard areas,
floodways, and design flood elevations; and
(i)Â
Evidence that the documents were prepared by a licensed and
registered architect in accordance with Article 147 of the New York
State Education Law or a licensed and registered professional engineer
in accordance with Article 145 of the New York State Education Law
and practice guidelines, including but not limited to the design professional's
seal which clearly and legibly shows both the design professional's
name and license number and is signed by the design professional whose
name appears on the seal in such a manner that neither the name nor
the number is obscured in any way, the design professional's
registration expiration date, the design professional's firm
name (if not a sole practitioner), and, if the documents are submitted
by a professional engineering firm and not a sole practitioner professional
engineer, the firm's certificate of authorization number.
E.Â
Construction documents. Construction documents will not be accepted as part of an application for a building permit unless they satisfy the requirements set forth in Subsection D(5) of this section. Construction documents which are accepted as part of the application for a building permit shall be marked as accepted by the Code Enforcement Officer, in writing or by stamp, or, in the case of electronic media, an electronic marking. One set of the accepted construction documents shall be retained by the Code Enforcement Officer, and one set of the accepted construction documents shall be returned to the applicant to be kept at the work site so as to be available for use by the Code Enforcement personnel. However, the return of a set of accepted construction documents to the applicant shall not be construed as authorization to commence work, nor as an indication that a building permit will be issued. Work shall not be commenced until and unless a building permit is issued.
F.Â
Issuance of building permits. An application for a building permit
shall be examined to ascertain whether the proposed work is in compliance
with the applicable requirements of the Uniform Code and Energy Code.
The Code Enforcement Officer shall issue a building permit if the
proposed work is in compliance with the applicable requirements of
the Uniform Code and Energy Code, and any other applicable requirements.
G.Â
Building permits to be displayed. Building permits shall be visibly
displayed at the work site and shall remain visible until the authorized
work has been completed.
H.Â
Work to be in accordance with construction documents. All work shall
be performed in accordance with the construction documents which were
submitted with and accepted as part of the application for the building
permit. The building permit shall contain such a directive. The permit
holder shall immediately notify the Code Enforcement Officer of any
change occurring during the course of the work. The building permit
shall contain such a directive. If the Code Enforcement Officer determines
that such change warrants a new or amended building permit, such change
shall not be made until and unless a new or amended building permit
reflecting such change is issued.
I.Â
Time limits. Building permits shall become invalid unless the authorized
work is commenced within 12 months following the date of issuance.
Building permits shall expire 18 months after the date of issuance.
A building permit which has become invalid or which has expired pursuant
to this subsection may be renewed upon application by the permit holder,
payment of the applicable fee, and approval of the application by
the Code Enforcement Officer.
J.Â
Revocation or suspension of building permits. If the Code Enforcement
Officer determines that a building permit was issued in error because
of incorrect, inaccurate, or incomplete information, or that the work
for which a building permit was issued violates the Uniform Code or
the Energy Code, the Code Enforcement Officer shall revoke the building
permit or suspend the building permit until such time as the permit
holder demonstrates that 1) all work then completed is in compliance
with all applicable provisions of the Uniform Code and the Energy
Code and 2) all work then proposed to be performed shall be in compliance
with all applicable provisions of the Uniform Code and the Energy
Code.
A.Â
Work to remain accessible and exposed. Work shall remain accessible and exposed until inspected and accepted by the Code Enforcement Officer or by an inspector authorized by the Code Enforcement Officer. The permit holder shall notify the Code Enforcement Officer when any element of work described in Subsection B of this section is ready for inspection.
B.Â
Elements of work to be inspected. The following elements of the construction
process shall be inspected, where applicable:
(1)Â
Work site prior to the issuance of a building permit;
(2)Â
Footing and foundation;
(3)Â
Preparation for concrete slab;
(4)Â
Framing;
(5)Â
Structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, fire protection, and
other similar service systems of the building;
(6)Â
Fire-resistant construction;
(7)Â
Fire-resistant penetrations;
(8)Â
Solid-fuel-burning heating appliances, chimneys, flues, or gas vents;
(9)Â
Inspections required to demonstrate Energy Code compliance, including
but not limited to insulation, fenestration, air leakage, system controls,
mechanical equipment size, and, where required, minimum fan efficiencies,
programmable thermostats, energy recovery, whole-house ventilation,
plumbing heat traps, and high-performance lighting and controls;
(10)Â
Installation, connection, and assembly of factory-manufactured buildings
and manufactured homes; and
(11)Â
A final inspection after all work authorized by the building permit
has been completed.
C.Â
Remote inspections. At the discretion of the Code Enforcement Officer
or inspector authorized to perform construction inspections, a remote
inspection may be performed in lieu of an in-person inspection when,
in the opinion of the Code Enforcement Officer or such authorized
inspector, the remote inspection can be performed to the same level
and quality as an in-person inspection and the remote inspection shows
to the satisfaction of the Code Enforcement Officer or by such authorized
inspector that the elements of the construction process conform with
the applicable requirements of the Uniform Code and Energy Code. Should
a remote inspection not afford the Code Enforcement Officer or such
authorized inspector sufficient information to make a determination,
an in-person inspection shall be performed.
D.Â
Inspection results. After inspection, the work or a portion thereof
shall be noted as satisfactory as completed or the permit holder shall
be notified as to the manner in which the work fails to comply with
the Uniform Code or Energy Code, including a citation to the specific
code provision or provisions that have not been met. Work not in compliance
with any applicable provision of the Uniform Code or Energy Code shall
remain exposed until such work shall have been brought into compliance
with all applicable provisions of the Uniform Code and the Energy
Code, reinspected, and found satisfactory as completed.
A.Â
Authority to issue. The Code Enforcement Officer is authorized to
issue stop-work orders. The Code Enforcement Officer is authorized
to issue a stop-work order to halt:
(1)Â
Any work that is determined by the Code Enforcement Officer to be
contrary to any applicable provision of the Uniform Code or Energy
Code, or any other applicable code, rule, law or regulation, without
regard to whether such work is or is not work for which a building
permit is required, and without regard to whether a building permit
has or has not been issued for such work; or
(2)Â
Any work that is being conducted in a dangerous or unsafe manner
in the opinion of the Code Enforcement Officer, without regard to
whether such work is or is not work for which a building permit is
required, and without regard to whether a building permit has or has
not been issued for such work; or
(3)Â
Any work for which a building permit is required which is being performed
without the required building permit or under a building permit that
has become invalid, has expired, or has been suspended or revoked.
C.Â
Service of stop-work orders. The Code Enforcement Officer shall cause
the stop-work order, or a copy thereof, to be served on the owner
of the affected property (and if the owner is not the permit holder,
on the permit holder, as applicable) personally or by registered mail
to the address of the owner and permit holder set forth in the building
permit application, if applicable, or if there be no building permit
application, to the owner's address as provided in the Town's
tax assessment records. The Code Enforcement Officer shall be permitted,
but not required, to cause the stop-work order, or a copy thereof,
to be served on any builder, architect, tenant, contractor, subcontractor,
construction superintendent, or their agents, or any other person
taking part or assisting in work affected by the stop-work order personally
or by registered mail to any address that such person may hold out
for the conduct of its business; provided, however, that failure to
serve any person mentioned in this sentence shall not affect the efficacy
of the stop-work order.
D.Â
Effect of stop-work order. Upon the issuance of a stop-work order,
the owner of the affected property, the permit holder, and any other
person performing, taking part in, or assisting in the work shall
immediately cease all work which is the subject of the stop-work order,
other than work expressly authorized by the Code Enforcement Officer
to correct the reason for issuing the stop-work order.
E.Â
Remedy not exclusive. The issuance of a stop-work order shall not be the exclusive remedy available to address any event described in Subsection A of this section, and the authority to issue a stop-work order shall be in addition to, and not in substitution for or limitation of, the right and authority to pursue any other remedy or impose any other penalty under § 83-17, Orders to remedy; appearance tickets; penalties; injunctive relief, of this chapter or under any other applicable local law or state law. Any such other remedy or penalty may be pursued at any time, whether prior to, at the time of, or after the issuance of a stop-work order.
A.Â
Certificates of occupancy and certificates of compliance required.
A certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance shall be required
for any work which is the subject of a building permit and for all
structures, buildings, or portions thereof which are converted from
one use or occupancy classification or subclassification to another.
Permission to use or occupy a building or structure, or portion thereof,
for which a building permit was previously issued shall be granted
only by issuance of a certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance.
B.Â
Issuance of certificates of occupancy and certificates of compliance.
The Code Enforcement Officer shall issue a certificate of occupancy
or certificate of compliance if the work which was the subject of
the building permit was completed in accordance with all applicable
provisions of the Uniform Code and Energy Code and, if applicable,
that the structure, building or portion thereof that was converted
from one use or occupancy classification or subclassification to another
complies with all applicable provisions of the Uniform Code and Energy
Code. The Code Enforcement Officer or an inspector authorized by the
Code Enforcement Officer shall inspect the building, structure, or
work prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy or certificate
of compliance. In addition, where applicable, the following documents,
prepared in accordance with the provisions of the Uniform Code by
such person or persons as may be designated by or otherwise acceptable
to the Code Enforcement Officer, at the expense of the applicant for
the certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance, shall be
provided to the Code Enforcement Officer prior to the issuance of
the certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance:
(1)Â
A written statement of structural observations and/or a final report
of special inspections;
(2)Â
Flood hazard certifications;
(3)Â
A written statement of the results of tests performed to show compliance
with the Energy Code; and
(4)Â
Where applicable, the affixation of the appropriate seals, insignias,
and manufacturer's data plates as required for factory manufactured
buildings and/or manufactured homes.
C.Â
Contents of certificates of occupancy and certificates of compliance.
A certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance shall contain
the following information:
(1)Â
The building permit number, if any;
(2)Â
The date of issuance of the building permit, if any;
(3)Â
The name (if any), address and Tax Map number of the property;
(4)Â
If the certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance is not
applicable to an entire structure, a description of that portion of
the structure for which the certificate of occupancy or certificate
of compliance is issued;
(5)Â
The use and occupancy classification of the structure;
(6)Â
The type of construction of the structure;
(7)Â
The occupant load of the assembly areas in the structure; if any;
(8)Â
Any special conditions imposed in connection with the issuance of
the building permit; and
(9)Â
The signature of the Code Enforcement Officer issuing the certificate
of occupancy or certificate of compliance and the date of issuance.
D.Â
Temporary certificate of occupancy. The Code Enforcement Officer
shall be permitted to issue a temporary certificate of occupancy allowing
the temporary occupancy of a building or structure, or a portion thereof,
prior to completion of the work which is the subject of a building
permit. However, in no event shall the Code Enforcement Officer issue
a temporary certificate of occupancy unless the Code Enforcement Officer
determines 1) that the building or structure, or the portion thereof
covered by the temporary certificate of occupancy, may be occupied
safely, 2) that any required fire and life safety components, such
as fire protection equipment and fire, smoke, carbon monoxide, and
heat detectors and alarms, are installed and operational, and 3) that
all required means of egress from the structure have been provided.
The Code Enforcement Officer may include in a temporary certificate
of occupancy such terms and conditions as he or she deems necessary
or appropriate to ensure the health and safety of the persons occupying
and using the building or structure and/or performing further construction
work in the building or structure. A temporary certificate of occupancy
shall be effective for a period of time, not to exceed 120 days, which
shall be determined by the Code Enforcement Officer and specified
in the temporary certificate of occupancy. During the specified period
of effectiveness of the temporary certificate of occupancy, the permit
holder shall undertake to bring the building or structure into full
compliance with all applicable provisions of the Uniform Code and
the Energy Code, and the failure to make reasonable progress towards
such compliance, in the judgment of the Code Enforcement Officer,
shall be grounds for revocation of the temporary certificate of occupancy.
E.Â
Revocation or suspension of certificates. If the Code Enforcement
Officer determines that a certificate of occupancy, certification
of compliance, or a temporary certificate of occupancy was issued
in error or on the basis of incorrect information, and if the relevant
deficiencies are not corrected to the satisfaction of the Code Enforcement
Officer within such period of time as shall be specified by the Code
Enforcement Officer, the Code Enforcement Officer shall revoke or
suspend such certificate.
The chief of any fire department providing firefighting services
for a property within the Town shall promptly notify the Code Enforcement
Officer of any fire or explosion involving any structural damage,
fuel-burning appliance, chimney, or gas vent.
A.Â
Investigation and report. When the Code Enforcement Officer has reason
to believe that a building, structure and/or equipment therein is
or may become dangerous or unsafe to the general public; is open at
the doorways and windows, making it accessible to persons not having
a legal or lawful claim of occupancy; is an attractive nuisance; is
or may become a place of rodent infestation; presents any other danger
to the health, safety, morals and general welfare of the public; or
is unfit for the purposes for which it may lawfully be used, the Code
Enforcement Office shall cause or make an inspection thereof and report,
in writing, to the Town Board findings and recommendations in regard
to its repair or demolition and removal.
B.Â
Hearing; notice; order to remedy. The Town Board shall consider such
report and, if in its opinion the report so warrants, set a date for
a public hearing on at least 10 days' notice to determine whether
or not such building can be safety repaired or should be demolished
and removed.
(1)Â
The notice of hearing shall be published once in the official Town
newspaper, a copy shall be affixed to the building in question and
a copy shall be either personally served on the owner or sent to the
owner by regular mail to the address of the owner on file with the
Town's tax assessment records.
(2)Â
At the public hearing, all interested parties shall be heard on the
question of repair or demolition and removal of the building.
(3)Â
The Town Board shall thereafter make an order either denying any
action in regard to the building; ordering its repair, if the same
is feasible; or ordering its demolition and removal.
(4)Â
If the Town Board order requires repair or demolition and removal,
it shall also contain the following:
(a)Â
The street address of the building;
(b)Â
A statement of the particulars in which the building is unsafe
or dangerous;
(c)Â
A statement specifying the manner in which the building is to
be made safe and secure or demolished and removed;
(d)Â
A statement that the securing or removal of such building shall
commence within 20 days of the service of the order and shall be completed
within 45 days thereafter, unless for good cause shown such time shall
be extended following application to the Code Enforcement Officer;
(e)Â
A statement that, in the event of neglect or refusal to comply
with the order to secure or demolish and remove the building, the
Town Board is authorized to provide for its securing or demolition
and removal, to assess all expenses thereof against the land on which
it is located and to institute a special proceeding to collect the
costs of demolition, including legal expenses.
(5)Â
The Town Board's order shall be served on the owner, either
personally or sent to the owner by regular mail to the address of
the owner on file with the Town's tax assessment records, and
affixed to the building. The Town Board's order will be deemed
received upon personal delivery or three days after deposit with the
U.S. Postal Service if mailed to addresses in Schuyler County or five
days after deposit with the U.S. Postal Service if mailed to addresses
outside Schuyler County if served by first-class mail.
C.Â
Failure to comply. In the event of the refusal or neglect of the
owner to comply with said Town Board order, the Town Board may by
resolution provide for the repair or demolition and removal of such
building or structure by Town employees and/or by contract.
D.Â
Payment and assessment of costs.
(1)Â
In a case where the Town has made repairs or demolished and removed
an unsafe building as a result of the failure of the owner to do so,
the owner shall pay to the Town the costs thereof within 20 days of
service of a demand for payment issued by the Code Enforcement Office.
Such demand for payment shall be served on the owner personally or
by first-class mail delivered to the address of the owner on file
with the Town's tax assessment records and will be deemed received
upon personal delivery or three days following deposit with the U.S.
Postal Service if mailed to addresses in Schuyler County or five days
following deposit with the U.S. Postal Service if mailed to addresses
outside Schuyler County after service by first-class mail.
(2)Â
Upon the failure of the owner to pay the above costs, the costs shall
be deemed to be a civil penalty against the owner, personally. Such
costs, if unpaid, shall also be assessed against the property on which
such building is located and shall be levied and collected in the
same manner as provided in Article 15 of New York State Town Law for
the levy and collection of a special ad valorem levy. The civil penalties
provided by this subsection shall be recoverable in an action instituted
in the name of the Town. The provisions of this section with respect
to costs shall be in addition to any penalty imposed for violation
of or noncompliance with any provision of this chapter, and shall
limit the collection of such costs by other means pursuant to this
chapter or otherwise.
E.Â
Conditions of imminent danger.
(1)Â
In the event the Code Enforcement Officer determines that the conditions
of a building or structure are such as to pose an imminent danger
to the occupants of such structure, the occupants of neighboring structures,
or shall pose an imminent and material threat to the health, safety,
and welfare of the public or of environmental contamination, the Code
Enforcement Officer may, as circumstances dictate:
(a)Â
Post the building or structure and/or the surrounding grounds
with a conspicuous notice that the premises is not to be occupied;
(b)Â
Take such steps as shall be reasonably necessary to secure the
property and prevent entry into the building or structure;
(c)Â
Order that all occupants of the building vacate the building
within such period that the Code Enforcement Officer shall dictate,
which period shall be reasonable under the circumstances; and/or
(d)Â
Take such steps as shall be reasonably neccessary to neutralize
any imminent and material threat to the public and/or environment.
(2)Â
In any case where the Code Enforcement Officer shall prohibit occupancy of a building Subsection E(1) above, the Code Enforcement Officer shall deliver a notice providing for a hearing on the Code Enforcement Officer's order to be conducted within 48 hours following the posting of the Code Enforcement Officer's order not to occupy. A written notice setting forth the time and location of such hearing shall be posted on the building and personally served on any adult occupant of the building that is located by the Code Enforcement Officer at the time of posting. At such hearing, the owner of the building or any occupant thereof shall have the opportunity to appeal the Code Enforcement Officer's order. Following such hearing, the Town Supervisor shall affirm, modify or overturn the order of the Code Enforcement Officer.
(4)Â
All costs incurred by the Town in connection with any action taken
pursuant to Subsection F(1) shall be recoverable by the Town as set
forth in other provisions of this chapter.
A.Â
Operating permits required.
(1)Â
Operating permits shall be required for conducting any process or
activity or for operating any type of building, structure, or facility
listed below:
(a)Â
Manufacturing, storing, or handling hazardous materials in quantities
exceeding those listed in the applicable Maximum Allowable Quantity
tables found in Chapter 50 of the FCNYS;
(b)Â
Buildings, structures, facilities, processes, and/or activities
that are within the scope and/or permit requirements of the chapter
or section title of the FCNYS as follows:
[1]Â
Chapter 22, "Combustible Dust-Producing Operations." Facilities
where the operation produces combustible dust;
[3]Â
Chapter 25, "Fruit and Crop Ripening." Operating a fruit- or
crop-ripening facility or conducting a fruit-ripening process using
ethylene gas;
[4]Â
Chapter 26, "Fumigation and Insecticidal Fogging." Conducting
fumigation or insecticidal fogging operations in buildings, structures,
and spaces, except for fumigation or insecticidal fogging performed
by the occupant of a detached one-family dwelling;
[5]Â
Chapter 31, "Tents, Temporary Special Event Structure, and Other
Membrane Structures." Operating an air-supported temporary membrane
structure, a temporary special event structure, or a tent where approval
is required pursuant to Chapter 31 of the FCNYS;
[6]Â
Chapter 32, "High-Piled Combustible Storage." High-piled combustible
storage facilities with more than 500 square feet (including aisles)
of high-piled storage;
[7]Â
Chapter 34, "Tire Rebuilding and Tire Storage." Operating a
facility that stores in excess of 2,500 cubic feet of scrap tires
or tire by-products or operating a tire rebuilding plant;
[8]Â
Chapter 35, "Welding and Other Hot Work." Performing public exhibitions and demonstrations where hot work is conducted, use of hot work, welding, or cutting equipment, inside or on a structure, except an operating permit is not required where work is conducted under the authorization of a building permit or where performed by the occupant of a detached one- or two-family dwelling;
[9]Â
Chapter 40, "Sugarhouse Alternative Activity Provisions." Conducting
an alternative activity at a sugarhouse;
[10]Â
Chapter 56, "Explosives and Fireworks." Possessing, manufacturing,
storing, handling, selling, or using explosives, fireworks, or other
pyrotechnic special effects materials, except the outdoor use of sparkling
devices as defined by Penal Law § 270;
[11]Â
Section 307, "Open Burning, Recreational Fires and Portable
Outdoor Fireplaces." Conducting open burning, not including recreational
fires and portable outdoor fireplaces;
[12]Â
Section 308, "Open Flames." Removing paint with a torch or using
open flames, fire, and burning in connection with assembly areas or
educational occupancies; and
[13]Â
Section 319, "Mobile Food Preparation Vehicles."
(c)Â
Energy storage systems, where the system exceeds the values
shown in Table 1206.1 of the FCNYS or exceeds the permitted aggregate
ratings in Section R327.5 of the RCNYS;
(d)Â
Buildings containing one or more assembly areas;
(e)Â
Outdoor events where the planned attendance exceeds 1,000 persons;
(f)Â
Facilities that store, handle or use hazardous production materials;
(h)Â
Buildings whose use or occupancy classification may pose a substantial
potential hazard to public safety, as determined by resolution adopted
by the Town Board; and
(i)Â
Other processes or activities or for operating any type of building,
structure, or facility as determined by resolution adopted by the
Town Board.
B.Â
Applications for operating permits. An application for an operating
permit shall be in writing on a form provided by or otherwise acceptable
to the Code Enforcement Officer. Such application shall include such
information as the Code Enforcement Officer deems sufficient to permit
a determination by the Code Enforcement Officer that quantities, materials,
and activities conform to the requirements of the Uniform Code. If
the Code Enforcement Officer determines that tests or reports are
necessary to verify conformance, such tests or reports shall be performed
or provided by such person or persons as may be designated by or otherwise
acceptable to the Code Enforcement Officer at the expense of the applicant.
C.Â
Exemptions. Operating permits shall not be required for processes or activities, or the buildings, structures, or facilities listed in Subsection A(1)(a) through (g) of this section, provided that the use is expressly authorized by a certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance, fire safety and property maintenance inspections are performed in accordance with § 83-11, Fire safety and property maintenance inspections, of this chapter, and condition assessments are performed in compliance with § 83-13, Condition assessments of parking garages, of this chapter, as applicable.
D.Â
Inspections. The Code Enforcement Officer or an inspector authorized
by the Code Enforcement Officer shall inspect the subject premises
prior to the issuance of an operating permit. Such inspections shall
be performed either in person or remotely. Remote inspections in lieu
of in-person inspections may be performed when, at the discretion
of the Code Enforcement Officer or an inspector authorized by the
Code Enforcement Officer, the remote inspection can be performed to
the same level and quality as an in-person inspection and the remote
inspection shows to the satisfaction of the Code Enforcement Officer
or inspector authorized by the Code Enforcement Officer that the premises
conform with the applicable requirements of the Uniform Code and the
code enforcement program. Should a remote inspection not afford the
Code Enforcement Officer or inspector sufficient information to make
a determination, an in-person inspection shall be performed. After
inspection, the premises shall be noted as satisfactory and the operating
permit shall be issued, or the operating permit holder shall be notified
as to the manner in which the premises fail to comply with either
or both the Uniform Code and the code enforcement program, including
a citation to the specific provision or provisions that have not been
met.
E.Â
Multiple activities. In any circumstance in which more than one activity listed in Subsection A of this section is to be conducted at a location, the Code Enforcement Officer may require a separate operating permit for each such activity or the Code Enforcement Officer may, in their discretion, issue a single operating permit to apply to all such activities.
F.Â
Duration of operating permits.
(1)Â
Operating permits shall be issued for a specified period of time
consistent with local conditions, but in no event to exceed as follows:
(2)Â
The effective period of each operating permit shall be specified
in the operating permit. An operating permit may be reissued or renewed
upon application to the Code Enforcement Officer, payment of the applicable
fee, and approval of such application by the Code Enforcement Officer.
G.Â
Revocation or suspension of operating permits. If the Code Enforcement
Officer determines that any activity or building for which an operating
permit was issued does not comply with any applicable provision of
the Uniform Code, such operating permit shall be revoked or suspended.
A.Â
Inspections required. Fire safety and property maintenance inspections
of buildings and structures shall be performed by the Code Enforcement
Officer or an inspector designated by the Code Enforcement Officer
at the following intervals:
(1)Â
At least once every six months for buildings which contain an assembly
area;
(2)Â
At least once every 12 months for public and private schools and
colleges, including any buildings of such schools or colleges containing
classrooms, dormitories, fraternities, sororities, laboratories, physical
education, dining, or recreational facilities; and
(3)Â
At least once every 36 months for multiple dwellings and all nonresidential
occupancies.
B.Â
Remote inspections. At the discretion of the Code Enforcement Officer
or inspector authorized to perform fire safety and property maintenance
inspections, a remote inspection may be performed in lieu of in-person
inspections when, in the opinion of the Code Enforcement Officer or
such authorized inspector, the remote inspection can be performed
to the same level and quality as an in-person inspection and the remote
inspection shows to the satisfaction of the Code Enforcement Officer
or such authorized inspector that the premises conform with the applicable
provisions of 19 NYCRR Part 1225 and the publications incorporated
therein by reference and the applicable provisions of 19 NYCRR Part
1226 and the publications incorporated therein by reference. Should
a remote inspection not afford the Code Enforcement Officer or such
authorized inspector sufficient information to make a determination,
an in-person inspection shall be performed.
C.Â
Inspections permitted. In addition to the inspections required by Subsection A of this section, a fire safety and property maintenance inspection of any building, structure, use, or occupancy, or of any dwelling unit, may also be performed by the Code Enforcement Officer or an inspector authorized to perform fire safety and property maintenance inspections at any time upon:
(1)Â
The request of the owner of the property to be inspected or an authorized
agent of such owner;
(2)Â
Receipt by the Code Enforcement Officer of a written statement alleging
that conditions or activities failing to comply with the Uniform Code
or Energy Code exist; or
(3)Â
Receipt by the Code Enforcement Officer of any other information,
reasonably believed by the Code Enforcement Officer to be reliable,
giving rise to reasonable cause to believe that conditions or activities
failing to comply with the Uniform Code or Energy Code exist; provided,
however, that nothing in this subsection shall be construed as permitting
an inspection under any circumstances under which a court order or
warrant permitting such inspection is required, unless such court
order or warrant shall have been obtained.
D.Â
OFPC inspections. Nothing in this section or in any other provision
of this chapter shall supersede, limit, or impair the powers, duties
and responsibilities of the New York State Office of Fire Prevention
and Control ("OFPC") and the New York State Fire Administrator or
other authorized entity under Executive Law § 156-e and
Education Law § 807-b.
The Code Enforcement Officer shall review and investigate complaints
which allege or assert the existence of conditions or activities that
fail to comply with the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, this chapter,
or any other local law, ordinance or regulation adopted for administration
and enforcement of the Uniform Code or the Energy Code. The process
for responding to a complaint shall include such of the following
steps as the Code Enforcement Officer may deem to be appropriate:
performing an inspection of the conditions and/or activities alleged
to be in violation, and documenting the results of such inspection:
A.Â
If a violation is found to exist, providing the owner of the affect property and any other person who may be responsible for the violation with notice of the violation and opportunity to abate, correct or cure the violation, or otherwise proceeding in the manner described in § 83-17, Orders to remedy; appearance tickets; penalties; injunctive relief, of this chapter;
B.Â
If appropriate, issuing a stop-work order;
C.Â
If a violation which was found to exist is abated or corrected, performing
an inspection to ensure that the violation has been abated or corrected,
preparing a final written report reflecting such abatement or correction,
and filing such report with the complaint.
A.Â
CONDITION ASSESSMENT
DETERIORATION
PARKING GARAGE
PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER
RESPONSIBLE PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER
UNSAFE CONDITION
UNSAFE STRUCTURE
Definitions. For the purposes of this section:
An on-site inspection and evaluation of a parking garage
for evidence of deterioration of any structural element or building
component of such parking garage, evidence of the existence of any
unsafe condition in such parking garage, and evidence indicating that
such parking garage is an unsafe structure.
The weakening, disintegration, corrosion, rust, or decay
of any structural element or building component, or any other loss
of effectiveness of a structural element or building component.
Any building or structure, or part thereof, in which all
of any part of any structural level or levels is used for parking
or storage of motor vehicles, excluding:
An individual who is licensed or otherwise authorized under
Article 145 of the Education Law to practice the profession of engineering
in the State of New York and who has at least three years of experience
performing structural evaluations.
The professional engineer who performs a condition assessment,
or under whose supervision a condition assessment is performed, and
who seals and signs the condition assessment report. The use of the
term "responsible professional engineer" shall not be construed as
limiting the professional responsibility or liability of any professional
engineer, or of any other licensed professional, who participates
in the preparation of a condition assessment without being the responsible
professional engineer for such condition assessment.
Includes the conditions identified as "unsafe" in Sections
304.1.1, 305.1.1, and 306.1.1 of the PMCNYS.
A structure that is so damaged, decayed, dilapidated, or
structurally unsafe, or is of such faulty construction or unstable
foundation, that partial or complete collapse is possible.
B.Â
Condition assessments: general requirements. The owner or operator of each parking garage shall cause such parking garage to undergo an initial condition assessment as described in Subsection C of this section, periodic condition assessments as described in Subsection D of this section, and such additional condition assessments as may be required under Subsection E of this section. Each condition assessment shall be conducted by or under the direct supervision of a professional engineer. A written report of each condition assessment shall be prepared, and provided to the Code Enforcement Officer in accordance with the requirements of Subsection F of this section. Before performing a condition assessment (other than the initial condition assessment) of a parking garage, the responsible professional engineer for such condition assessment shall review all available previous condition assessment reports for such parking garage.
C.Â
Initial condition assessment. Each parking garage shall undergo an
initial condition assessment as follows:
(1)Â
Parking garages constructed on or after August 29, 2018, shall undergo
an initial condition assessment following construction and prior to
a certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance being issued
for the structure.
(2)Â
Parking garages constructed prior to August 29, 2018, shall undergo
an initial condition assessment as follows:
(a)Â
If originally constructed prior to January 1, 1984, then prior
to October 1, 2019;
(b)Â
If originally constructed between January 1, 1984, and December
31, 2002, then prior to October 1, 2020; and
(c)Â
If originally constructed between January 1, 2003, and August
28, 2018, then prior to October 1, 2021.
(3)Â
Any parking garage constructed prior to the effective date of this
chapter that has not undergone an initial condition assessment prior
to the effective date of this chapter shall undergo an initial condition
assessment prior to that date which is six months following the effective
date of this chapter.
D.Â
Periodic condition assessments. Following the initial condition assessment
of a parking garage, such parking garage shall undergo periodic condition
assessments at intervals not to exceed three years.
E.Â
Additional condition assessments.
(1)Â
If the latest condition assessment report for a parking garage includes a recommendation by the responsible professional engineer that an additional condition assessment of such parking garage, or any portion of such parking garage, be performed before the date by which the next periodic condition assessment would be required under Subsection C of this section, the owner or operator of such parking garage shall cause such parking garage (or, if applicable, the portion of such parking garage identified by the responsible professional engineer) to undergo an additional condition assessment no later than the date recommended in such condition assessment report.
(2)Â
If the Code Enforcement Officer becomes aware of any new or increased deterioration which, in the judgement of the Code Enforcement Officer indicates that an additional condition assessment of the entire parking garage, or of the portion of the parking garage affected by such new or increased deterioration, should be performed before the date by which the next periodic condition assessment would be required under Subsection C of this section, the owner or operator of such parking garage shall cause such parking garage (or, if applicable, the portion of the parking garage affected by such new or increased deterioration) to undergo an additional condition assessment no later than the date determined by the Code Enforcement Officer to be appropriate.
F.Â
Condition assessment reports. The responsible professional engineer
shall prepare, or directly supervise the preparation of, a written
report of each condition assessment and shall submit such condition
assessment report to the Code Enforcement Officer within 30 days following
the date of assessment. Such condition assessment report shall be
sealed and signed by the responsible professional engineer and shall
include:
(1)Â
An evaluation and description of the extent of deterioration and
conditions that cause deterioration that could result in an unsafe
condition or unsafe structure;
(2)Â
An evaluation and description of the extent of deterioration and
conditions that cause deterioration that, in the opinion of the responsible
professional engineer, should be remedied immediately to prevent an
unsafe condition or unsafe structure;
(3)Â
An evaluation and description of the unsafe conditions;
(4)Â
An evaluation and description of the problems associated with the
deterioration, conditions that cause deterioration, and unsafe conditions;
(5)Â
An evaluation and description of the corrective options available,
including the recommended time frame for remedying the deterioration,
conditions that cause deterioration, and unsafe conditions;
(6)Â
An evaluation and description of the risks associated with not addressing
the deterioration, conditions that cause deterioration, and unsafe
conditions;
(7)Â
The responsible professional engineer's recommendation regarding
preventative maintenance;
(8)Â
Except in the case of the report of the initial conditional assessment,
the responsible professional engineer's attestation that he or
she reviewed all previously prepared condition assessment reports
available for such parking garage and considered the information in
the previously prepared reports while performing the current condition
assessment and while preparing the current report; and
(9)Â
The responsible professional engineer's recommendation regarding
the time within which the next condition assessment of the parking
garage or portion thereof should be performed. In making the recommendation
regarding the time within which the next condition assessment of the
parking garage or portion thereof should be performed, the responsible
professional engineer shall consider the parking garage's age,
maintenance history, structural condition, construction materials,
frequency and intensity of use, location, exposure to the elements,
and any other factors deemed relevant by the responsible professional
engineer in their professional judgment.
G.Â
Review condition assessment reports. The Code Enforcement Officer such enforcement action or actions in response to the information in such condition assessment report as may be necessary or appropriate to protect the public from the hazards that may result from the conditions described in such report. In particular, but not by way of limitation, the Code Enforcement Officer shall, by order to remedy or such other means of enforcement as the Code Enforcement Officer may deem appropriate, require the owner or operator of the parking garage to repair or otherwise remedy all deterioration, all conditions that cause deterioration, and all unsafe conditions identified in such condition assessment report pursuant to Subsection F(2) and (3). All repairs and remedies shall comply with the applicable provisions of the Uniform Code. This section shall not limit or impair the right of the Code Enforcement Officer to take any other enforcement action, including but not limited to suspension or revocation of a parking garage's operating permit, as may be necessary or appropriate in response to the information in a condition assessment report.
H.Â
The owner or operator of the parking garage and the Code Enforcement
Officer shall retain all condition assessment reports for the life
of the parking garage. Upon request by a professional engineer who
has been engaged to perform a condition assessment of a parking garage,
and who provides the Code Enforcement Officer with a written statement
attesting to the fact that he or she has been so engaged, the Code
Enforcement Officer shall make the previously prepared condition assessment
reports for such parking garage (or copies of such reports) available
to such professional engineer. The Code Enforcement Officer shall
be permitted to require the owner or operator of the subject parking
garage to pay all costs and expenses associated with making such previously
prepared condition assessment reports (or copies thereof) available
to the professional engineer.
I.Â
This section shall not limit or impair the right or the obligation
of the Code Enforcement Officer:
(1)Â
To perform such construction inspections as are required by § 83-5, Construction inspections, of this chapter;
(2)Â
To perform such periodic fire safety and property maintenance inspections
as are required by § 83-71, Fire safety and property maintenance
inspections, of this chapter; and/or
(3)Â
To take such enforcement action or actions as may be necessary or
appropriate to respond to any condition that comes to the attention
of the Code Enforcement Officer by means of its own inspections or
observations, by means of a complaint, or by any other means other
than a condition assessment or a report of a condition assessment.
A.Â
The Code Enforcement Officer shall determine the climatic and geographic
design criteria for buildings and structures constructed within the
Town as required by the Uniform Code. Such determinations shall be
made in the manner specified in the Uniform Code using, where applicable,
the maps, charts, and other information provided in the Uniform Code.
The criteria to be so determined shall include, but shall not necessarily
be limited to, the following:
(1)Â
Design criteria to include ground snow load; wind design loads; seismic
category; potential damage from weathering, frost, and termites; winter
design temperature; whether ice barrier underlayment is required;
the air freezing index; and the mean annual temperature;
(2)Â
Heating and cooling equipment design criteria for structures within
the scope of the RCNYS. The design criteria shall include the data
identified in the Design Criteria Table found in Chapter 3 of the
RCNYS; and
(3)Â
Flood hazard areas, flood hazard maps, and supporting data. The flood
hazard map shall include, at a minimum, special flood hazard areas
as identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in the Flood
Insurance Study for the community, as amended or revised with:
B.Â
The Code Enforcement Officer shall prepare a written record of the climatic and geographic design criteria determined pursuant to Subsection A of this section, shall maintain such record within the office of the Code Enforcement Officer, and shall make such record readily available to the public.
A.Â
The Code Enforcement Officer shall keep permanent official records
of all transactions and activities conducted by all Code Enforcement
personnel, including records of:
(1)Â
All applications received, reviewed and approved or denied;
(2)Â
All plans, specifications and construction documents approved;
(3)Â
All building permits, certificates of occupancy, certificates of
compliance, temporary certificates, stop-work orders, and operating
permits issued;
(4)Â
All inspections and tests performed;
(5)Â
All statements and reports issued;
(6)Â
All complaints received;
(7)Â
All investigations conducted;
(8)Â
All condition assessment reports received;
(9)Â
All fees charged and collected; and
B.Â
All such records shall be public records open for public inspection
during normal business hours. All plans and records pertaining to
buildings or structures, or appurtenances thereto, shall be retained
for at least the minimum time period so required by state law and
regulation.
A.Â
The Code Enforcement Officer shall annually submit to the Town Board a written report and summary of all business conducted by the Code Enforcement Officer and the inspectors, including a report and summary of all transactions and activities described in § 83-15, Recordkeeping, of this chapter and a report and summary of all appeals or litigation pending or concluded.
B.Â
The Code Enforcement Officer shall annually submit to the Secretary
of State, on behalf of the Town, on a form prescribed by the Secretary
of State, a report of the activities of the Town relative to administration
and enforcement of the Uniform Code.
C.Â
The Code Enforcement Officer shall, upon request of the New York
State Department of State, provide to the New York State Department
of State true and completer copies of the records and related materials
the Town is required to maintain; true and complete copies of such
portion of such records and related materials as may be requested
by the Department of State; and/or such excerpts, summaries, tabulations,
statistics, and other information and accounts of its activities in
connection with administration and enforcement of the Uniform Code
and/or Energy Code as may be requested by the Department of State.
A.Â
Orders to remedy. The Code Enforcement Officer is authorized to order,
in writing, the remedying of any condition or activity found to exist
in, on or about any building, structure, or premises in violation
of the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, or this chapter. An order to
remedy shall be in writing; shall be dated and signed by the Code
Enforcement Officer; shall specify the condition or activity that
violates the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, or this chapter; shall
specify the provision or provisions of the Uniform Code, the Energy
Code, or this chapter which is/are violated by the specified condition
or activity; and shall include a statement substantially similar to
the following: "The person or entity served with this order to remedy
must completely remedy each violation described in this order to remedy
by __________ which is 30 days after the date of this order to remedy."
The order to remedy may include provisions ordering the person or
entity served with such order to remedy 1) to begin to remedy the
violations described in the order to remedy immediately, or within
some other specified period of time which may be less than 30 days;
to continue diligently to remedy such violations until each such violation
is fully remedied; and, in any event, to complete the remedying of
all such violations within 30 days of the date of such order to remedy;
and/or 2) to take such other protective actions (such as vacating
the building or barricading the area where the violations exist) which
are authorized by this chapter or by any other applicable statute,
regulation, rule, local law or ordinance, and which the Code Enforcement
Officer may deem appropriate, during the period while such violations
are being remedied. The Code Enforcement Officer shall cause the order
to remedy, or a copy thereof, to be served on the owner of the affected
property personally or by registered mail sent to the address of the
owner on file with the Town's tax assessment records within five
days after the date of the order to remedy. The Code Enforcement Officer
shall be permitted, but not required, to cause the order to remedy,
or a copy thereof, to be served on any builder architect, tenant,
contractor, subcontractor, construction superintendent, or their agents,
or any other person taking part or assisting in work being performed
at the affected property personally or by registered mail within five
days after the date of the order to remedy; provided, however, that
failure to serve any person mentioned in this sentence shall not affect
the efficacy of the compliance order.
B.Â
Appearance tickets. The Code Enforcement Officer and each inspector
are authorized to issue appearance tickets for any violation of the
Uniform Code.
C.Â
Penalties. Each violation of any provision of this chapter or any
term, condition, or provision of any building permit, certificate
of occupancy, certificate of compliance, temporary certificate, stop-work
order, operating permit or other notice or order issued by the Code
Enforcement Officer pursuant to any provision of this chapter that
continues for a period of 24 hours shall be considered a separate
violation of this chapter. In addition to such other penalties as
may be prescribed by state law, each separate violation of this chapter:
(1)Â
Shall be punishable by a fine of not more than $100 per day of violation
or imprisonment not exceeding one day, or both; and
(2)Â
Any person who violates any provision of the Uniform Code, the Energy
Code or this chapter, or any term or condition of any building permit,
certificate of occupancy, certificate of compliance, temporary certificate,
stop-work order, operating permit or other notice or order issued
by the Code Enforcement Officer pursuant to any provision of this
chapter, shall be liable to pay a civil penalty of not more than $100
for each separate violation. The civil penalties provided by this
subsection shall be recoverable in an action instituted in the name
of the Town.
D.Â
Injunctive relief. An action or proceeding may be instituted in the
name of the Town in a court of competent jurisdiction to prevent,
restrain, enjoin, correct, or abate any violation of, or to enforce,
any provision of the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, this chapter,
or any term or condition of any building permit, certificate of occupancy,
certificate of compliance, temporary certificate, stop-work order,
operating permit, order to remedy, or other notice or order issued
by the Code Enforcement Officer pursuant to any provision of this
chapter. In particular, but not by way of limitation, where the construction
or use of a building or structure is in violation of any provision
of the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, this chapter, or any stop-work
order, order to remedy or other order obtained under the Uniform Code,
the Energy Code or this chapter, an action or proceeding may be commenced
in the name of the Town in the Supreme Court or in any other court
having the requisite jurisdiction to obtain an order directing the
removal of the building or structure or an abatement of the condition
in violation of such provisions. No action or proceeding described
in this subsection shall be commenced without the appropriate authorization
from the Town Board.
E.Â
Remedies not exclusive. No remedy or penalty specified in this section shall be the exclusive remedy or remedy available to address any violation described in this section, and each remedy or penalty specified in this section shall be in addition to, and not in substitution for or limitation of, the other remedies or penalties specified in this section, in § 83-6, Stop-work orders, of this chapter, in any other section of this chapter, or in any other applicable law. Any remedy or penalty specified in this section may be pursued at any time, whether prior to, simultaneously with, or after the pursuit of any other remedy or penalty specified in this section, in § 83-6, Stop-work orders, of this chapter, in any other section of this chapter, or in any other applicable law. In particular, but not by way of limitation, each remedy and penalty specified in this section shall be in addition to and not in substitution for or limitation of, the penalties specified in Subdivision (2) of § 382 of the Executive Law, and any remedy or penalty specified in this section may be pursued at any time, whether prior to, simultaneously with, or after the pursuit of any penalty specified in Subdivision (2) of § 382 of the Executive Law.
F.Â
Assessment of costs. Whenever, in connection with the enforcement
of any provision of this chapter applicable to any specific parcel
of real property and/or in connection with any remedial or abatement
action authorized by this chapter or other applicable law, the Town
shall incur any cost or expense attributable to such enforcement,
remediation or abatement action, the amount of such cost or expense
shall be assessed against the affected property as herein provided.
(1)Â
Upon completion of any such enforcement, remediation or abatement
action, the cost or expense thereof to the Town shall be fixed and
determined by the Code Enforcement Officer and thereafter transmitted
to the Town Board. Upon receipt of such transmittal, the Town Board
may by resolution confirm the amount of such cost or expense, whereupon
the amount of such cost or expense shall constitute a special assessment
against the affected property.
(2)Â
The special assessment described in Subsection F(1) above shall be paid, shall accrue interest, and shall be included within the annual tax levy pursuant to New York State Town Law and Real Property Tax Law and shall otherwise be considered a special assessment for purposes of all general and local laws.
(3)Â
The Town may assess costs pursuant to this chapter in addition to,
and cumulatively with, the exercise of any other enforcement mechanisms
provided by this chapter or otherwise.
A fee schedule shall be established by resolution of the Town
Board. Such fee schedule may thereafter be amended from time to time
by like resolution. The fees set forth in, or determined in accordance
with, such fee schedule or amended fee schedule shall be charged and
collected for the submission of applications, the issuance of building
permits, amended building permits, renewed building permits, certificates
of occupancy, certificates of compliance, temporary certificates,
operating permits, fire safety and property maintenance inspections,
and other actions of the Code Enforcement Officer described in or
contemplated by this chapter.
The Town Board may, by resolution, authorize the Town to enter
into an agreement with other governments to carry out the terms of
this chapter, provided that such agreement does not violate any provision
of the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, Part 1203 of Title 19 of the
NYCRR, or any other applicable law.
If any section of this chapter shall be held unconstitutional,
invalid, or ineffective, in whole or in part, such determination shall
not be deemed to affect, impair, or invalidate the remainder of this
chapter.
This chapter amends, restates and replaces any existing local
law pertaining to administration and enforcement of the codes.
This chapter shall take effect immediately upon filing in the
office of the New York State Secretary of State in accordance with
§ 27 of the Municipal Home Rule Law.