§ 18-167. Abatement by county; placarding.

(a)

If the owner fails to comply with an order to repair, alter, improve, or demolish the dwelling, building, or structure, the county building official may cause such dwelling, building, or structure to be repaired, altered, or improved; vacated and closed; or demolished. Such abatement action shall commence within 270 days after the expiration of time specified in the order for abatement by the owner. If the order authorizes immediate abatement due to the owner not appearing at the hearing, the abatement action shall commence within 270 days of the date of the order.

(b)

In any case following the issuance of an abatement order where the county is authorized to proceed with abatement, the county building official shall cause to be posted on the main entrance of the building, dwelling, or structure a placard with the following words:

"This building is unfit for human habitation or commercial, industrial, or business use and does not comply with the applicable codes or has been ordered secured to prevent its use in connection with drug crimes or constitutes an endangerment to public health or safety as a result of unsanitary or unsafe conditions. The use or occupation of this building is prohibited and unlawful."

(c)

Any time during which abatement is prohibited by a court order issued pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 41-2-13 or any other equitable relief granted by a court of competent jurisdiction shall not be counted toward the 270 days in which such abatement action must commence.

(Res. No. 13-11, § 1, 5-28-2013)

State law reference

O.C.G.A. § 41-2-9(a)(5).