(a) The code official is authorized to issue stop work orders directing that erection, construction, alterations, installation, repairs, removal, demolition and other activities cease immediately and that the premises be vacated pending compliance with such orders whenever:
(1) Any structure or part thereof is found to be in a dangerous or unsafe condition due to inadequate maintenance, deterioration, damage by natural causes, fire, or faulty construction that it is likely to cause imminent injury to persons or property;
(2) Any erection, construction, alterations, installation, repairs, removal, demolition or other activity is being performed in or on any structure or premises, or part thereof, contrary to accepted construction practices or in a dangerous or unsafe manner which imperils life, safety or property, or constitutes a fire or health hazard;
(3) Any erection, construction, alterations, installation, repairs, removal, demolition or other activity is being performed in or on any structure or premises, or any part thereof, without required permits;
(4) Any erection, construction, alterations, installation, repairs, removal, demolition or other activity is being performed in or on any structure or premises, or any part thereof, in non-compliance with the approved permit documents, any of technical codes, or any other applicable law or regulation.
(b) The stop work order shall be in writing and shall describe the nature of the dangerous or unsafe condition, the manner of correction and the conditions under which work can be resumed. Where the department observes a condition that creates a hazard to life or property requiring immediate action, an immediate oral order shall have the full effect of the subsequent written order.
(c) The stop work order shall be served on the person from whom action, forbearance or compliance is required and the owner of the premises. Upon notice of the stop work order, all work shall stop immediately and the premises shall be vacated and closed to the public until there has been compliance with the terms of the stop work order.
(d) The stop work order shall be posted at every entrance to the premises in conspicuous places clearly visible to the public. The stop work order shall remain posted on the premises until the required repairs have been made, the dangerous and unsafe conditions eliminated and required permits obtained.
(e) Any person who violates a stop work order by doing any of the following will be subject to the penalties provided in section 5-22 of this article.
(1) Continuing any work in or about any structure or premises, or part thereof, after a stop work order has been issued, except work required to correct the dangerous or unsafe conditions described in the stop work order;
(2) Entering any structure or premises, or part thereof, on which a stop work order has been posted, except for the purpose of correcting the dangerous or unsafe conditions described in the stop work order;
(3) Permitting any structure or premises, or part thereof, to be occupied by the public before the stop work order has been lifted by the department;
(4) Removing, damaging, altering or defacing any stop work order;
(5) Resisting or interfering with any inspector or other official in the performance of their duties or the enforcement of any provision of this article. (Ord. No. G-05-18, § 13, 12-19-05)