§ 18-92. Definitions.

The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this section, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

Closing. Causing a dwelling, building, structure or property to be vacated and secured against unauthorized entry.

Dwellings, buildings or structures. Any building or structure or part thereof used and occupied for human habitation, commercial, industrial or business uses or intended to be so used, and includes any outhouses, improvements and appurtenances belonging thereto or usually enjoyed therewith and also includes any building or structure of any design. The term does not include any farm, any building or structure located on a farm, or any agricultural facility or other building or structure used for the production, growing, raising, harvesting, storage, or processing of crops, livestock, poultry, or other farm products.

Owner. The holder of the title in fee simple and every mortgagee of record.

Parties in interest. Persons in possession of such property and all persons and entities who have any interest in such dwelling, building or structure, or the property on which it is situated, based on a 50-year title examination conducted in accordance with the title standards of the State Bar of Georgia, and any party who has filed a notice per O.C.G.A. § 48-3-9.

Public authority. Any housing authority officer or any officer who is in charge of any department or branch of the city, county or state relating to health, fire, or building regulations or to other activities concerning dwellings, buildings, or structures in the city.

Public officer. The building inspector, health department officer, the city clerk/treasurer, or any other city representative approved by the city council, who are authorized to exercise the powers prescribed by this section, or any agent of such officer or officers, or any other officer or officers appointed by the city council for purposes of this section.

Repair. Altering or improving a dwelling, building, structure or property to bring it into compliance with the applicable regulations and the cleaning or removal of debris, trash, and other materials present and accumulated which create a health or safety hazard in or about any dwelling, building, structure or property.

Vacancy. The use of a structure or property is discontinued in excess of 30 consecutive days.

State Law reference— Similar provisions, O.C.G.A. § 41-2-8.

(Amend. of 6-12-2007, § 1)