A violation of this chapter or the failure to
remedy any existing violation pursuant to service of an order to comply
is hereby declared to be an offense, punishable by a fine not exceeding
$250 or imprisonment for a period not to exceed 15 days, or both.
However, for the purpose of conferring jurisdiction upon courts and
judicial officers generally, violations of this chapter shall be deemed
misdemeanors and for such purpose only all provisions of law relating
to misdemeanors shall apply to such violations.