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Ordinance No. 9260F',1D I tJANCI"_`, 1,10. 92() AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS, BY THE ADDITION OF A NEW CHAPTER, TO BE NUMBERED CHAPTER 33, AND TO BE EN- TITLED "URBAN REHAB ILITATIDN STANDARDS", AND CONTAINING PROVISIONS ESTABLISH- ING MINIMUM STANDARDS GOVERNING TIIE USE, OCCUPANCY, AND MAINTENANCE OF PREMISES, DWELLINGS, ROOMING HOUSES, UT11LITIES AND FACILITIES AND NONRESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES; STABLISHING THE URBAN REHABIL- NIN'' V I D I N G F 0 R DEFINIMG DUTIES OF THE CHIEF a I ITATION STANDARDS REVIEW 00Af Pill jURES OF THE BOARD; PRC THE INSPECTION OF STRUCTURES BY THE CHIEF BUILDING INSPECTOR; PROVIDING FOR THE PLACARDING OF BUILDiNGS DEEMED UNFIT FOR HUMAN HABITATION; PROVIDING FOR THE RECORDING OF NOTICES OF INFRACTIONS; DECLARING THAT ALL REGULATIONS OF THE OR- DINANCES AND FUNCTIONS OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE PERSONNEL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN ARE GOVERNMENTAL AND FOR THE: BENEFIT OF THE GENERAL PUBLIC; PROVIDING A PENALTY CLAUSE; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY AID SAVINGS CLAUSE, ANN PROVIDING FOR THE EFFEC - TIVE DATE THEREOF. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN: Section 1: That the Code of Ordinances of the City of Baytown, Texas, is hereby amended by adding a now chapter, to be numbered Chupter 33, and to be en- titled "Urban Rehabilitatiun Standards", which shall read au follows, 10 wjt� CHAFItER' 33 URBAN REHABILITATION STANDARDS ARTICLE 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS Section 33-1 Title This chapter shall be known as Urban Rehabilitation Standards. Section 33-2 LeWslative Findinq of Fact It is hereby found and declared that there exists in the City of Baytown, Texas, structures used for human habilitation and non- residential purposes, which are or may become in the future, sub- standard with respect to structure, equipuent, or maintenance, and further that such conditions together with inadequate provision for light and air, insufficient protection against fire hazards, lack of proper heating, insanitary conditions, and overcrowding constitute a menace to the health, safety, morals, welfare and reasonable contort of its citizens. It is further found and de- clared that the existence of such conditions, factors, or charac- teristics will, if not remedied, create slum and blighted areas re- quiring large scale clearance, and further that, in the absence of Mrrective measures, such areas will experience a deterioration of social values, as curtailment of investment and tax rovenue, and an impairment of economic values. It is further found and declared that the establishmont and maintenance of minimum structural and environmental standards are essential to the prevention of blight and decay and the safeguarding of public health, safety, morals, and welfare. Section 33-3 Pur=e Of Chapter The purpose of this chapter is to protect the public health, safefy, morak, and welfare of the citizens of the City Of Bay&wn, Texas, by establishing minimum standards governing the construction, use, occupancy, and maintenance of dwellings, dwelling units, rooming houses, rooming units, premises and all nonresidential structures; establishing minimum standards governing utilities, facilities, and other physical components and conditions essential to make dwellings, dwelling units, rooming houses, rooming units, and all nonresidential structures and premises safe, sanitary, and fit for human use and habitation; fixing certain responsibilities and duties of owners, operators, agents, and occupants of dwellings, dwelling units, room- ing houses, rooming units, and all other nonresidential structures; authorizing and establishing procedures for the inspection of dwell- ings, dwelling units, rooming houses, rooming units, and all nonres- idential structures, and the condemnation and vacation of those dwellings, dwelling units, rooming houses, rooming units, and all nonresidential structures unfit for human use, occupancy, and habita- tion, and fixing penalties for the violation of the provisions of this chapter. This chapter is hereby declared to be remedial and essential to the public interest, and it is intended that this chapter be liberally construed to effectuate the purposes as stated above. Section 33 -4 Definitions I. Accessory structure: A structure, the use of which is incidental to that of the main building, and which is attached thereto or located on the same premises. 2. Approved: Approved by the head of the Inspection Department under the provisions of this chapter or the rules and regulations adopted pursuant thereto, or approved by an authority designated by law or by this ordinance. 3. Basement: The portion of the building that is partly underground which has more than one -half its height measured from clear floor to ceiling above the average finished grade of the ground adjoining the building. 4. Bathroom: Enclosed space containing one or more bathtubs, showers, or both, and which may also include toilets, lavatories, or fixtures serving similar purposes. 5. Board: Board shall mean the Urban Rehabilitation Standards Board. b. Boardinghouse: Boardinghouse shall mean a lodginghouse where meals are provided by the operator. 7. Building: A combination of any materials, whether portable or fixed, having a roof to form a structure affording shelter for persons, animals, or property. The word building shall be construed, when used herein, as though followed by the words or part of parts thereof unless the context clearly requires a different meaning. 8. Building Code: Building Code shall mean the current Building Code of the City of Baytown. 9. Cellar: Lowermost portion of the building partly or totally underground having half or more of its height, measured from clear floor to ceiling, below the average finished grade of the adjoining ground. 10. Chief Building Inspector: The City Official responsible for enforcement of this chapter. 11. Dwelling: Building containing not more than two dwelling units occupied exclusively for residential uses. Residential uses shall include a private garage, domestic storage and customary home occupa- tions conducted in the dwelling by the occupants, such as the practice of a profession. -2- r 12. Dwelling premises: Dwelling premises shall mean the land, dwelling units and auxilliary buildings hereon used or intended to be used in connection with a dwelling. 13. Dwelling unit: One or more rooms with living, cooking, sani- tary, and sleeping facilities therein arranged for one family with whom may reside not more than four (4) lodgers or boarders. 14. Open space area: An area on a lot that is open and unobstructed to the sky except for the ordinary projections of cornices and eaves. 15. Extermination: The control and elimination of insects, rodents, and vermin by eliminating their harborage places; by removing or making inaccessible, materials that may serve as their food; by poisoning, spraying fumigating, trapping; or by any other approved means of pest elimination. 16. Gross floor area: The total square foot area of all floors in a building measured to the outside faces of exterior walls or to the line of an omitted wall, whichever includes the largest area. 17. Garbage: The animal, vegetable, and mineral wastes resulting from the handling, preparation, cooking, and consumption of food. 18. Grade: Natural surface of the ground, or surface ground after completion of any change in contour. 19. Floor Space: The total area of all habitable space. 20. Habitable space: Space occupied by one (1) or more persons for living, sleeping, eating, or cooking; excluding kitchenettes, bath- rooms, toilet rooms, laundries, pantries, dressing rooms, storage spaces, foyers, hallways, utility rooms, heater rooms, boiler rooms, and basement or cellar recreation rooms. 21. Infestation: The presence, within or contiguous to a dwelling unit, rooming house, rooming unit, or premises, of insects, rodents, vermin, or other pests. 22. Kitchen: Space, sixty (60) square feet or more in floor area with a minimum width of five (5) feet used for cooking or preparation of food and deemed habitable space. 23. Kitchenette: Space, less than sixty (60) square feet in floor area used for cooking or preparation of food and not deemed habitable space. 24. Lodginghouse: Lodginghouse shall mean any dwelling or part thereof which contains one or more lodging units, and in which space is occupied or intended to be occupied by five or more persons who are not husband and wife, son or daughter, mother or father, sister or brother of the owner or operator. 25. Lodging unit: Lodging unit shall mean any room or group of rooms which form a single and separate habitable unit within a lodging or boardinghouse and used or intended to be used for living and sleeping, but not for cooking. 26. Multiple residence: (a) building containing three (3) or more dwelling units; (b) building containing one or two dwelling units and more than four (4) lodgers residing with either one of such families; (c) a building with one (1) or more sleeping rooms, other than a one or two family dwelling, used or occupied by per- manent or transient paying guests or tenants. 27. Nonresidential structure: A structure which is used for other than residential purposes or a part of such structure or a structure -3- part of which is used for other than residential purposes and where applicable the premises on which such structures are situated. 28. Occupant: Any person over one (1) year of age living, sleeping, cooking, or eating in or having actual possession of a dwelling unit or rooming unit. 29. Operator: Any person who has charge, care, or control of a multiple residence or rooming house in which dwelling units or room- ing units are let or offered for occupancy. 30. Outside design temperature: Temperature based on the average of the low temperature recorded in the area, either during the last twenty -five (25) years or as long as temperature records have been kept. 31. Owner: Owner or owners of the freehold of the premises or lesser estate therein, a mortgagee or vendee in possession, assignee of rents, receiver, executor, trustee, lessee, or other person, firm, or corpora- tion, in control of a building. 32. Plumbing: Plumbing shall mean and include all of the following supplied facilities, equipment and devices: Gas pipes, water pipes, toilets, lavatories, sinks, laundry tubs, installed dishwashers, garbage disposal units, installed clothes- washing machines, catch basins, wash basins, bathtubs, shower baths, waste, sewer pipes and sewage system, septic tanks, drains, vents, traps, and any other fuel - burning or water -using fixtures and appliances together with all connec- tions to water, waste, and sewer or gas pipes. 33. Potable water: Water duly approved as satisfactory and safe for drinking. 34. Premises: A lot, plot, or parcel of land including the buildings or structures thereon. 35. Public sewer: Sewer operated by a public authority, or public utility and available for public use. 36. Rooming House: A building or part thereof which contains one (1) or more rooming units and in which space is occupied or in- tended to be occupied by five (5) or more persons who are not husband or wife, son or daughter, mother or father, or sister or brother of the owner or operator. 37. Rooming unit: Any room or group of rooms forming a single habitable unit used or intended to be used for living or sleeping but not for cooking purposes. 38. Rubbish: All combustible and noncombustible waste, except garbage. 39. Sewage: Waste from a flush toilet, bath, sink, lavatory, dishwashing machine or laundry machine or the water - carried waste from any other fixture or equipment or machine. 40. Structure: That which is built or constructed, an edifice or building of any kind, or any piece of work artifically built up or composed of parts joined together in some definite manner. Section 33 -5 Applicability to All Structures, Residential and Nonresidential Every portion of a building or premises, residential and non- residential, shall comply with the applicable provisions of this chapter, irrespective of when such building shall have been con- structed, altered, or repaired; and irrespective of any permits or licenses which shall have been issued for the use or occupancy of -4- ' ) the building or premises, for the construction or repair of the building, or for the installation or repair of equipment or facil- ities prior to the effective date of this chapter. This chapter establishes minimum standards for the initial and continued use and occupancy of all buildings and does not replace or modify standards otherwise established for the construction, repair, altera- tion, or use of the building equipment or facilities except as pro- vided in Section 33 -90. ARTICLE 11. ENFORCEMENT Section 33 -6 Duties of the Chief Building Inspector The Chief Building Inspector is hereby authorized and directed to enforce any and all provisions of this chapter. Section 33 -7 Environmental Surveys The Chief Building Inspector shall have the authority to make or cause to be made surveys in any area of the city to determine the general conditions of structures, the extent of deterioration, lack of facilities, maintenance, unsafe and insanitary conditions, the extent of overcrowding, land use, and other relevant factors necessary to implement the purposes of this chapter. Section 33 -8 Inspection of Structures The Chief Building Inspector shall be authorized to make or cause to be made inspections to determine the condition of any structure and premises in order to safeguard the health, safety, morals, and welfare of the public. The Chief Building Inspector or his designated representatives shall be authorized to enter any structure or premises at any reasonable time. Section 33 -9 Access to Structures The owner, operator, agent, or occupant of every structure or premises shall give personnel authorized in Section 33 -8 access to such structure and premises for the purpose of such inspection at any reasonable time. Section 33 -10 Identification of Personnel Inspectors and authorized personnel of the Inspection Department shall be supplied with official identification and upon request shall exhibit such identification when entering any structure or premises. Section 33 -II Notice of Violation Whenever the Chief Building Inspector determines that there has been a violation or that there are reasonable grounds to believe that there has been a violation or alleged violation of this chapter or any rule or regulation adopted pursuant thereto, he shall give notice of such violation or alleged violation to the person or persons respon- sible for such violation. Such notice shall be in writing and shall specify the alleged violation and shall provide a reasonable time for compliance. Section 33 -12 Notice of Determination of Unfit Structure Whenever the Chief Building Inspector determines that a building is unfit for human use as set out in this chapter, he shall include within his notice of violation provided for in Section 33 -II a statement of his intention to bring the violation before the Urban Rehabilitation Standards Board for their consideration and decision. -5- Section 33 -13 Recording of Notices Whenever a notice or order has been issued for any infraction of this chapter, the Chief Building Inspector may file a copy of such notice or order in the Office of the County Clerk to be filed in the Deed Records. Such recording shall constitute sufficient notice of the impending action to any subsequent purchaser, trans- feree, grantee, mortgagee, or lessee of the property affected. Section 33 -14 Duties of the Legal Officer The City Attorney shall upon complaint of the head of the Inspec- tion Department or upon his own motion, institute appropriate action to restrain, prevent, enjoin, abate, correct, or remove such violation and to take such other legal action as is necessary to carry out the terms and provisions of this chapter. The remedies provided for herein shall be cumulative and not exclusive and shall be in addition to any other remedies provided by law; any and all remedies may be pursued concurrently or consecutively, and the pur- suit of any remedy shall not be construed as an election or the waiver of the right to pursue any and all of the others. ARTICLE III. URBAN REHABILITATION STANDARDS REVIEW BOARD Section 33 -15 Urban Rehabilitation Standards Review Board There is hereby created an Urban Rehabilitation Standards Board hereinafter referred to as the Board which shall be organized, appointed, and function as follows: Section 33 -16 Organization of the Board The Board shall consist of seven (7) members who are residents and taxpayers of the City of Baytown, each of whom shall be appointed by the City Council and four (4) of whom shall be appointed for a term of one (1) year, three (3) of whom shall be appointed for a period of two (2) years, and each member of said Board shall thereafter be appointed for a term of two (2) years and each member of said Board shall serve until his successor shall have been appointed and qual- ified. All cases to be heard by the Board shall be heard by a minimum of not less than four (4) members. The City Council shall appoint a chairman of said Board and the membership thereof shall elect a vice - chairman. Members shall not be an employee of the City of Baytown and shall include the following: (1) A registered architect who has had at least five years experience in the construction of building and housing. (2) A mortage loan banker who has been engaged in mortage loan banking for at least five (5) years. (3) A homebuilder who has had at least five (5) years experi- ence in the construction of homes. (4) A person who is engaged in social or welfare work and having at least five (5) years experience in public or private case work. (5) An ordained minister who has had at least five (5) years ex- perience in the clergy. (6) Two citizens who are known to have an interest in community affairs. I� Ex officio members shall possess no voting privileges and their only function shall be to render advice to the regular members of the Board. Ex officio members shall be as follows: (1) The Director of Public Health of the City of Baytown. (2) The Fire Marshal of the City of Baytown. (3) The Chief Building Inspector of the City of Baytown. Section 33 -17 Jurisdiction of the Board When in its judgment, the public convenience, health, welfare, safety, or morals will be substantially served and the appropriate use of the neighboring property will not be substantially or permanently injured, the Board may in specific cases after public notice and public hear- ing and subject to appropriate conditions and safeguards authorize the following variances and special exceptions to the regulations here- in established and take action relative to the continuance or discon- tinuance of blighted, deteriorated, obsolete and substandard structures within the meaning of this chapter. (a) To hear and decide appeals where it is alleged there is any error on any order, requirement, decision, or determination made by the Chief Inspector or consider on its own motion plans, surveys and specifications for any proposed repair of structures coming under the Board's jurisdiction. (b) Permit the repair of substandard structures subject to certain requirements pertaining to the structure or premises as may be deemed necessary to protect adjoining property owners. (c) Require the vacation of structures deemed to be unfit for human use or habitation as provided in this chapter. (d) Require the demolition of structures deemed to be substandard and unfit for human use and habitation as provided in this chapter. (e) A variance may be granted when the literal interpretation of this chapter would result in an unreasonable or unnecessary hardship. Section 33 -18 Operation Procedure The Board shall adopt rules to govern its proceedings provided that such rules are not inconsistent with this chapter or State Law. Meetings of the Board shall be held at the call of the chairman or in his absence, the vice - chairman or a designated acting chairman or at such other times as the Board may determine. The Chairman or acting chairman may administer oath and compel the attendance of witnesses. Section 33 -19 Public Meeting All meetings of the Board shall be open to the public. The Board shall keep minutes of its proceedings, showing the vote of each member upon each question or if absent or failing to vote indicat- ing such fact and shall keep a record of its meetings and other official actions, all of which shall be immediately filed in the Office of the Chief Building Inspector and shall be a public record. The Chief Building Inspector or his designated representative shall act as Secretary to the Board. Section 33 -20 Appeals to the Board Appeals to the Board can be taken by any person aggrieved or by an -7- officer, department or board of the municipality affected by any decision of the Chief Building Inspector. Such appeal shall be taken within ten (10) days after the decision has been rendered by the Chief Building Inspector by filing in the Inspector's Office a notice of appeal specifying the grounds thereof. The Inspector shall cause all documents constituting the records upon which the action was appealed from to be forwarded to the Board. Section 33 -21 Stay of Proceedings An appeal shall stay all proceedings in furtherence of the action appealed from unless the Chief Building Inspector certifies to the satisfaction of the Board that by reason of facts stated in the certificate, a stay would in his opinion cause imminent peril to I ife or property. Section 33 -22 Notice of Intent to Demolish Whenever the Chief Building Inspector has taken all necessary steps prescribed under this chapter and has not been successful in requiring compliance on structures that are unfit for human use or habitation or that are obsolete, dilapidated, or substandard, he shall issue a notice of intent to demolish to the Board to- gether with the owner of such structure as reflected by the City's current tax roll and any agent, lessee or other occupant of the structure. The notice of intent to demolish shall cause the Board to make an examination of the case and render a decision. If the Board upholds the intent to demolish by the Chief Building Inspector, the Board shall issue an order to demolish, instructing the Chief Building Inspector to advertise for bids for demolition of the substandard structure or structures. Section 33 -23 Notice of Hearing The Board shall hold a public hearing on all appeals made to it and written notice of such public hearing shall be sent to the applicant and others who are owners of real property lying within two hundred (200) feet of the property on which the appeal is made. Such notice shall be given not less than ten (10) days before the date set for hearing to all such owners who have rendered their said property for city taxes as the ownership appears on the last city tax roll. Such notice may be served by depositing the same properly addressed and postage paid in the United States Post Office. Notice shall also be given by publishing the same in the official publication of the City of Baytown at least ten (10) days prior to the date set for the hearing which notice shall state the time and place of such hearings. Section 33 -24 Hearings At a public hearing relative to any appeal, any interested party may appear in person, by his agent or by his attorney. The burden of proof shall be on the applicant to establish the necessary facts to the satisfaction of the Board that the Order of the Chief In- spector should be set aside or qualified. Section 33 -25 Recover of Demolition Costs The expenses of demolition incurred pursuant to Section 33 -22 of this chapter shall be paid by the owner of the affected premises. The Inspection Department shall keep an accurate record of the demolition costs along with a record of any salvage recovered and forward this information to the Office of the Tax Collector of the City of Baytown for his collection. The entire cost of demolition, less any salvage recovery shall be levied, assessed and collected by the Tax Office, on or before the date the ad valorem taxes are due and failure to so pay by the property owner will con- stitute a misdemeanor. In the event that such charges are not paid when due, the collector of taxes of the City of Baytown will file with the County Clerk of Harris County, Texas, a sworn statement by the Chief Building Inspector setting out the expenses that the City of Baytown has incurred pursuant to Section 33 -22 of this chapter, and the City of Baytown shall thereby perfect a privileged lien on the property involved, second only to tax liens and liens for street improvements, together with six (6%) percent interest from the date such payment was due. ARTICLE IV. SPACE, OCCUPANCY, STRUCTURAL, MECHANICAL AND FIRE PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS The following requirements shall apply to all structures, whether residential or nonresidential, except where the same are expressly limited to dwelling units. Section 33 -26 Land Area Requirements All land areas, improved and unimproved, shall be reasonably free from holes and excavations, sharp protrusions, and other objects or conditions which might be a potential cause of personal injury. Walks, steps, and driveways that contain holes or other hazards shall be filled, repaired or replaced as the need indicates. All wells, cesspools, or cisterns shall be securely closed. Trees, limbs, shrubs or other plant life that constitute a hazard shall be removed. Section 33 -27 Care of Premises All land areas shall be kept free from organic and inorganic material that might become a health, accident, or fire hazard as defined herein. All land areas, improved and unimproved, shall be kept reasonably clean at all times. Containers with covers shall be provided for the temporary storage of garbage and rubbish. Materials of an inflammable nature shall be safely stored as pro- vided in the Fire Code or removed from the premises. It shall be unlawful for the owner or occupant of a residential building, structure or property to utilize the premises of such residential property for the open storage of any abandoned motor vehicle, ice box, refrigerator, stove, glass, building material, building rubbish or similar items. It shall be the duty and responsibility of every such owner or occupant to keep the premises of such resi- dential property clean and to remove from the premises all such abandoned items. NOTE: For the purposes of this section, an abandoned motor vehicle is defined as one that is in a state of disrepair and incapable of being moved under its own power. Section 33 -28 Discharge of Sewage Sewage must be discharged into a public sewer system except as provided in Section 33 -54 of this chapter. Discharge of inade- quately treated sewage shall not be permitted upon the surface of the ground or into natural or artificial surface drainageways. Section 33 -29 Storm Water Drainage Storm water shall be properly drained to prevent recurrent or excessive ponding or the entrance of water into any basement or cellar. The ground surrounding the structure shall, when practical, be graded away from the building and foundation. Conductors or drain pipes, where utilized, shall function properly. Storm water sewers, dry wells, or other satisfactory drainage systems shall be used where required by the Building Code. Section 33 -30 Weeds and Plant Growth Exterior property areas shall be kept cut or mowed to prevent weeds, brush, or other plant growth becoming a health or fire hazard. Weeds, brush and other plant growth shall be cut or mowed on all exterior property areas whenever such weeds, brush or other plant growth are allowed to grow to an extent determined to be a fire or health hazard. All sidewalks, driveways, and entrances used for ingress and egress shall be free from weeds, brush, overhanging or protruding limbs of trees and other plant growth. Any limbs of trees that have become rotted or decayed to the point of being dangerous to persons shall be removed. Section 33 -31 Insect and Rodent Harborage All land areas shall be kept reasonably free from sources of insect, vermin and rodent breeding, harborage, and infestation. Where insect, rodent, or vermin breeding areas, harborage or in- festation exist, such areas, harborage, or infestation shall be eliminated. Section 33 -32 Domestic Animals and Pets Domestic animals and pets shall not be kept on any premises in such manner so as to create insanitary conditions or constitute a nui- sance. Domestic animals and pets shall be maintained in accordance with applicable regulations of the City of Baytown. Insanitary con- ditions, inappropriate types of pets or animals and excessive numbers of same constitute conditions which may be considered a nuisance under this section. Section 33 -33 Depreciation of Surrounding Property All land areas shall be so maintained as not to cause a substantial depreciation in property values in the immediate neighborhood. Ex- terior property areas shall be kept free from objects, materials, and conditions which will have an adverse effect on adjacent premises by reducing the desirability of living conditions in the immediate neighborhood and causing a substantial depreciation in property values. Section 33 -34 Structural Requirements Requirements herein shall pertain to both accessory and primary structures. Accessory structures and fences located on all land areas shall be kept in good repair, free from health, fire, and accident hazards and vermin, insect, and rodent harborage. Accessory structures shall be kept structurally sound and in good repair or re- moved from the premises. Effective rodent proofing or extermination must be done, where necessary, in these structures. The exterior of such structures shall be made weather - resistant through the use of decay- resistant materials or the application of paint or other pre- servatives. Privies, except as provided in Section 33 -55, shall be removed from the premises or demolished. Section 33 -35 Foundation Walls The foundation and walls of every structure shall be structurally sound and shall be maintained in good repair. Foundations and walls shall be considered to be in good repair and structurally sound if found free from damage or defects and capable of bearing imposed loads as required by the Building Code, provided that whenever hollow masonry blocks are used as supporting piers, such piers shall be an- chored to the concrete footing with a 5/8" steel dowel and the hollow pier filled with concrete. Section 33 -36 Stairs, Porches, Landings, and Railings The stairs, porches, landings, and railings affixed to the exterior of every structure shall be kept in good repair and structurally sound. Railings shall be provided for stairs and balconies and, where necessary, for porches and accessible roofs. Stairs and porches shall be considered to be in good repair and structurally sound when found to be free of holes, cracks, and capable of supporting imposed loads. Properly balustraded railings shall be provided when there is clear danger of accident or personal injury and must be capable of bearing normally imposed loads. Section 33 -37 Weather and Water -tight Every structure shall be so maintained that it will be weather and water - tight. Exterior walls, roofs, and all openings around doors, windows, chimneys, and all other parts of the structure shall be so maintained as to keep water from entering the structure and to pre- vent undue heat loss. Damaged materials must be repaired or replaced. All parts of the structure that show evidence of dry rot or deteriora- tion shall be replaced and refinished to be in conformity with the rest of the structure. Section 33 -38 Protective Coating for Wood Surfaces All exterior wood surfaces of a structure that are not of a species inherently resistant to decay shall be treated periodically with a protective coating or other preservative to prevent structural dete- rioration. Exterior wood surfaces shall be adequately protected against deterioration through periodic application of approved pro- tective coatings. Section 33 -39 Entablatures, Cornices, Belt Course All cornices, entablatures, belt courses, corbels, terracotta trim, wall facings, and similar decorative features shall be maintained in good repair with proper anchorage and in a safe condition. Section 33 -40 Chimneys All chimneys, cooling towers, smoke stacks, and similar appurtenances shall be maintained structurally safe, sound, and in good repair, all exposed surfaces of metal or wood shall be protected from the elements and against decay or rust by periodic application of weather - coating material such as paint or similar surface treatment. Section 33 -41 Vermin and Rodent Free The exterior of every structure shall be so maintained as to be vermin and rodent free. Section 33 -42 Screening Required Every window, door, and other openings to outdoor space in the exterior of every structure shall be effectively protected against the entrance of insects. Every opening except bulkheads used for ingress and egress from a structure used for human habitation directly to or from outdoor space shall be supplied with either a self -clos- ing device or a self - closing screen door and every window in every habitable room, bathroom, toilet room or compartment and every other opening to outdoor space shall be equipped with approved screening, provided that such screening is necessary for effective protection against insects. Section 33 -43 Structure Interior Cellars, basement, and crawl spaces in every structure shall be reasonably free from dampness to prevent conditions conducive to decay or deterioration of the structure. Cross ventilation shall be provided in every basement, cellar and crawl space consisting of at least one (1) window, opening or vent located near each corner of the structure. The aggregate ventilation area shall not be less than one (1) square foot for every one hundred (100) lineal feet of wall space or one (1) percent of the total area of the enclosed space, whichever is greater. Section 33 -44 Structural Members Supporting structural members of every structure shall be struc- turally sound and capable of bearing the load safely. Supporting structural members shall be considered to be structurally sound if such members are capable of bearing imposed loads safely and if there is no evidence of deterioration. Section 33 -45 Chimneys, Flues, and Vents Chimneys and all flue and vent attachments shall be structurally sound and free from defect, performing the function for which they were designed and are used. Chimneys, flues, gas vents, or other draft - producing equipment shall provide sufficient draft to develop the rated output of the connected equipment. Chimneys, flue linings, where required, flues, gas vents, and their supports shall be struc- turally safe, durable, smoke -tight and capable of withstanding the action of flue gases. Section 33 -46 Stairs, Landings, Steps, and Railings Interior stairs of every structure shall be structurally sound and free from defects. Railings shall be provided for stairs, balconies, landings, and stairwells. Treads or risers that evidence excessive wear or are broken, warped, or loose shall be repaired. Stairs shall be securely fastened to support normally imposed loads. Properly balustraded railings capable of bearing normally imposed loads shall be placed on the open portions of stairs, balconies, landings, and stairwells. Stairs in multiple residences shall comply with applicable sections of the Building Code. Section 33 -47 Floors, Walls, and Ceilings Floors, walls, and ceilings of every structure shall be structurally sound and maintained in a clean and sanitary condition. Same shall be free from cracks, breaks, loose plaster, and similar conditions. Floors shall be considered to be structurally sound where capable of safely bearing imposed loads and shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition. Walls and ceilings shall be considered to be structurally sound and in good repair when clean, free from cracks, breaks, loose plaster, and similar conditions. Section 33 -48 Bathroom Floors Bathroom, shower room, and toilet room or compartment floors of every dwelling unit shall be water resistant. The floor surface of every bathroom, shower room, and toilet room or compartment shall be constructed or covered with a moisture resistant finish or material. Such floors shall be kept in a dry, clean, and sanitary condition. Section 33 -49 Free from Rubbish and Garbage The interior of every structure shall be maintained free from rubbish and garbage and other refuse that might become a health, accident, or fire hazard. Containers with tight- fitting covers shall be provided for the temporary storage of rubbish, garbage, and other refuse. Disposal of garbage by garbage disposal units shall be in accordance with all applicable regulations of the City of Baytown. Materials of an inflammable nature shall be stored so -12- as to comply with the Fire Code or removed from the premises. Section 33 -50 Insect and Rodent Harborage The interior of every structure shall be free from insect, rodent, and vermin infestation. Where insect, rodent or vermin infestation, harborage or breeding areas exist, such areas, harborage or infesta- tion shall be eliminated. Articles of value shall be stored in such a manner as not to constitute pestilential harborage. Section 33 -51 Basic Facilities Every dwelling unit shall be supplied with a potable water supply. There shall be adequate water supply and pressure at all installed hot and cold water outlets. All required facilities in every dwell- ing unit and rooming house shall be connected to a source of potable water. The supply and pressure shall be sufficient at all times for the operation of all installed plumbing fixtures and equipment. Where water is not supplied from a public source, the source and system utilized shall be approved by responsible authorities in the City of Baytown, Texas. Section 33 -52 Hot Water Every dwelling unit shall have an adequate supply of hot water, properly connected to plumbing fixtures requiring hot water. Water heating equipment shall be installed according to the appli- cable regulations of the City of Baytown. Such equipment shall be properly maintained and capable of delivering water at a constant minimum temperature of 120 °F. at all times at each hot water outlet. Section 33 -53 Plumbing Fixtures Required Every dwelling unit shall have the following plumbing fixtures properly installed and maintained: kitchen sink, toilet, bathtub or shower, and lavatory. Kitchen sinks, bathtubs, showers, and lavatories shall be properly connected to both hot and cold water lines. All nonresidential structures shall have plumbing installed and maintained to all the requirements of the Plumbing Code per- taining to the installation and maintenance of such items. Section 33 -54 Plumbing Shall Be Connected to Sewer Lines All plumbing fixtures installed within a dwelling unit shall be connected to sewer lines that discharge into a public sewerage system if such line lies within three hundred (300) feet or other approved means of disposal. Plumbing fixtures not connected to a public sewerage system shall be connected to an approved sewerage disposal system. Such private sewage disposal systems shall be constructed and repairs or additions made in accordance with the applicable regulations of the City of Baytown, Texas. No sewage from a plumbing system shall be discharged into the waters of the State of Texas unless specially approved by the authority having jurisdiction in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas. Section 33 -55 Privies Not Permitted No privy or dry closet shall be constructed or maintained in the City of Baytown without the written approval of the City Health Officer or his duly authorized representative. Section 33 -56 Heating Facilities Every structure occupied during normal heating periods shall have heating facilities capable of maintaining a minimum inside tempera- ture of 70 °F. based on outside design temperatures in all habitable -13- rooms, bathrooms, and toilet and shower rooms or compartments. Section 33 -57 Electrical Service Every structure shall be provided with electrical service if available within three hundred (300) feet. Section 33 -58 Cooking Facilities Where cooking facilities are provided, same shall meet the require- ments of the Building Code, State Health laws, and the Electrical Code. Section 33 -59 Refrigerated Space In every structure where perishable foods are kept, refrigerated space for their storage or appropriate utility connections shall be provided. Where refrigeration equipment is not provided, adequate space and utility connections shall be provided. Section 33 -60 Means of Egress Every dwelling unit and rooming unit shall have exits in accordance with the Building Code and the Fire Code. Exits which cannot be cut off in case of fire shall be regarded as a minimum essential. These exits shall be of such nature that can safely be used by women, children, the infirm, aged, and physically handicapped when necessary. Section 33 -61 Installation and Maintenance Every water line, plumbing fixture, and drain installed in a structure shall be properly installed, connected, and maintained and capable of performing the function for which it was designed. Water lines, plumbing fixtures, and drains shall be maintained in working order and must be kept free from obstructions, leaks, and defects; any re- pairs and replacement of such fixtures must be made in accordance with the Plumbing Code of the City of Baytown, Texas. Every stack, waste line, and sewer line located in a structure and every connec- ing sewer line shall be so installed and maintained as to function properly and not be a source of structural deterioration or a health hazard. All stacks, waste lines, and sewer lines shall be kept free from obstructions, leaks, and defects. All necessary repairs and replacements shall be made in accordance with the Plumbing Code and other applicable regulations of the City of Baytown, Texas. Section 33 -62 Installation of Heating Equipment Every heating, cooking, and water - heating device located in a structure shall be properly installed, connected, and capable of performing the function for which it was designed. All heating, cooking, and water - heating equipment burning solid fuels shall be rigidly connected to a chimney or flue and such heating equipment burning liquid or gaseous fuels shall be rigidly connected to a supply line, and where required, to a chimney, flue, or vent. Heating equipment shall be installed in a manner which will avoid the dangerous concentration of fumes and gases. Heating equipment shall not be forced to operate beyond the safe capacity for which it was designed. Where necessary, exposed heating risers, heating ducts, and hot water lines shall be covered with an insulating material or guard. Repairs and installations shall be made in accordance with the applicable regulations of the City of Baytown, Texas. Section 33 -63 Maintenance and Operation of Heating Equipment Every heating, cooking, and water - heating device shall be so maintained and operated as to be free from fire, health, and accident hazards. All fuel- burning equipment, components, and -14- accessories shal I be free from leaks and obstructions and function proparly. Repairs shal I be made in accordance ca On the appl i crab le loca "regulations of the City of Baytown, Texan. Secticn 53-64 Staraae of Fuels All Wels stored on the premises for the operation of heat-producing equipment shall be stored in as safe manner. Fuels shall bo stored so —as to comply with the State Law and provisions of the .ire Code. No fuel, oil, gasoline, or highly inflanmable Wei shall be stored within any structure used for human habitation, except in a manner approved by the Fire Department of the City of Baytown, Taxas. Section 33-65 Maintenance of Electrical Wirinq and Devices klectrical wiring and devices shall be so designod, insialled, and maintained as not to be a potential source of ignition of combustible material or an electrical hazard. The rating or setting of over- current devices shall not be in excess of the carrying capacity of the circuit conductor. Defective or unsafe wiring and equipmeni, shall be reoalrod or replaced. No temporary wiring shall be in- slallod as 1 permanent method of wiring. Ex tans lon cards shall be run directly from portable electric fixtures or appliances to out- leis and shall not lie under floor covering or extend through door- ways, fransoms or other openings through structural elamants. When the capacity of circuits within as building is insufficient to carry the load imposed by normal use of appliances, addilional circuits shall be provided or the use of excessive apollances discontinued. ARTICLE V. LODGING AND BOARDING HOUSE REQUIREMENTS In addillon to the requirements established by Article IV hereof which apply to all structures, the following additional requirements apply lo every boarding house, lodging house and lodging unit. Section 33-66 Lodging and Boardinf,,'jhouse, Rer,'Juliren]WIls Whenever in this Article V the term "dwelling" is used, it shall be construed to mean lodging or boardinghouse. Section 33-67 AuDlication for Occupancy Record Cards Every owner or operator of a lodging or boardinghouse shall make application for an occupancy record card at the Chlol InsDector's Office an as form provided by the Inspection Department . A fee of ton dollars to cover cost of inspection must accompany each applica- tion. Upon receipt of an application for an occupancy record card, an inspection shall be made of the lodging or rooming housa for which such application has been made and if the lodging or boardinghouse complies with all of the provisions o! this Chapter, then the Chief Inspector shall issue an occupancy record card fo the applicant. Occupancy record cards shall be renewed annually and application for renewal shall be made during the two-month period preceding the anniversary date ns.f the previously issued occupancy record card. Occupancy record cards shall designate the maximum number of per who may occupy as lodging or boardinghouse and auch lodging unit therein. Occupancy record cards shall designate the room number assigned to each unit. The operator shall display the occupancy record card at all times in an conspicuous place near the main entrance of the lodging or boardinghouse. No person shall altor, tamper, or remove any occupancy record card from the lodging or boardinghouse without written permission of the Chief Inspector who shall keep a duplicate of the occupancy record card in his files. All rooming and boardingnouses within the city must have boon issued an occupancy record card by January 1, 1969, and after January 1, 1969, -15- no person shall own or operate a lodging or boardinghouse which has not been issued an occupancy record card. Section 33 -68 Numbering of Units The owner or operator of a lodging or boardinghouse containing six or more lodging units within such structure shall place or cause to be placed a number on the outside of the main door of each unit. The number on the outside of the door to the lodging unit shall correspond to the number for that unit designated on the occupancy record card for that particular Iodginghouse or boardinghouse. No two lodging units shall bear the same number. The maximum number of persons who may occupy the lodging unit shall be posted in each such unit and shall not be changed with- out the written approval of the Chief Building Inspector. Section 33 -69 Flush Toilet and Lavatory Basin Every lodging and boardinghouse shall be supplied with at least one approved flush toilet and lavatory basin in good working condition for each eight persons or fraction thereof residing within the lodging or boardinghouse. In counting such persons, members of the operator's family who share the use of such sanitary facilities shall be included; but the occupants of any lodging units that are otherwise provided with an approved flush toilet and lava- tory basin shall be excluded. All such sanitary facilities shall be so located within the lodging or boardinghouse as to be directly accessible to all persons sharing such facilities without entering another lodging unit. Section 33 -70 Bathtub and Shower Bath Every lodging and boardinghouse shall be supplied with at least one bathtub or shower bath in good working condition for each eight persons or fraction thereof residing within a lodging or boardinghouse. In counting such persons, members of the operator's family who share the use of such sanitary facilities shall be included but occupants of any lodging units who are otherwise provided with an approved bath- tub or shower bath shall be excluded. All such sanitary facilities shall be so located within the lodging or boardinghouse as to be directly accessible to all persons sharing such facilities without entering another lodging unit. Section 33 -71 Water and Sewer Connections Every kitchen sink, lavatory, basin, flush toilet, and bathtub or shower bath required under the provisions of this section shall be properly connected to a water line of the city, or to a system approved by the City. All lodging and boardinghouse premises shall be connected to a sewer line of the city if such sewer line lies within three hundred (300) feet of the lodging or boardinghouse premises. If a city sewer line does not lie within three hundred (300) feet of the lodging or boardinghouse premises, the kitchen sink, lavatory, basin, flush toilet, and bathtub or shower bath shall be connected through an approved sewer connection to an adequate septic tank or other waste disposal system approved by the City Health Department. Section 33 -72 Hot and Cold Water Every kitchen sink, lavatory, basin, and bathtub or shower bath re- quired under this Article shall be supplied with hot and cold water properly connected as required in the preceding paragraph. Section 33 -73 Impervious Flooring The floor surface of every bathroom, toilet room or compartment shall be constructed of material impervious to water; or if sm constructed of material not impervious to water, it shall be covered with fitted linoleum or painted or varnished so as to make the floor surface reasonably impervious to water. All such floors shall be kept in a dry, clean and sanitary condition by the operator. Section 33 -74 Rubbish and Garbage Storage and Disposal The operator shall be responsible for the supply, maintenance and cleanliness of storage containers as required by Section 33 -27 herein. The occupant shall be responsible for the removal of all rubbish and garbage from the lodging unit and the storage of such water in a clean, nonfire hazardous and sanitary manner by placing it in the required containers. Section 33 -75 Heating Facilities Every lodginghouse, boardinghouse, and lodginghouse unit shall be supplied heating facilities which bear the seal of approval of an approved, nationally recognized testing agency and which heating facilities are used in the manner for which they were designed and approved. Such heating facilities shall be installed in compliance with the ordinances of the city and the provisions of this chapter, and shall be capable of safely and adequately heating all habitable rooms, bathrooms, and toilet rooms or compartments within its walls to a temperature of at least seventy degrees Fahrenheit at three feet above the floor level in the center of the room when the outside temperature is thirty degrees Fahrenheit. Doors, windows, and other parts of the lodginghouse, boardinghouse, or lodging unit shall be constructed and maintained so as to prevent abnormal heat losses. Section 33 -76 Screening of Vents Every opening which is used for ventilation purposes from a lodging - house, boardinghouse, and lodging unit directly to or from outdoor space shall be equipped with screening which shall be provided by the owner. All screening required under this paragraph shall not be less than sixteen meshes to the inch and shall be installed and main- tained in a manner affording complete protection against entry in the lodginghouse, boardinghouse, or lodging unit of flies, mosquitoes, and insects. Section 33 -77 Clean and Sanitary Maintenance The operator shall be responsible for the clean, nonfire hazardous, n and sanitary maintenance of all walls, floors, and ceilings in every t lodging unit and every common area of the lodging or boardinghouse. Section 33 -78 Extermination The operator shall be responsible for the extermination of rodents, vermin, or other pests within every portion of the lodging or boarding- house and in any portion of the structure that is leased or occupied by him; provided, however, that whenever infestation also occurs in any other portion of the structure, or whenever infestation is caused by failure of the owner to carry out the provisions of this chapter, extermination shall be the responsibility of the owner. Section 33 -79 Maintenance of Plumbing and Equipment The operator shall be responsible for the exercise of proper care and cleanliness in the use and operation of all plumbing fixtures, sanitary facilities, appliances and equipment. The owner of the above plumbing fixtures, sanitary facilities, appliances and equip- ment shall be responsible for the maintenance thereof in absence of written agreement to the contrary. -17- Section 33 -80 Sleeping Space Per Person Every room in any lodging unit occupied for sleeping purposes by one person shall contain at least seventy square feet of floor space, exclusive of hall and closet space, for each occupant thereof. Section 33 -81 Cooking Prohibited No cooking shall be permitted in any lodging unit. Section 33 -82 Means of Egress Each story of a lodging or boardinghouse shall have two approved and unobstructed means of egress and there shall be unobstructed access from each lodging unit to the means of egress. ARTICLE VI. SUBSTANDARD BUILDINGS Section 33 -83 Designation of Unfit Structures Any structure having any of the defects found in Sections 33 -83.1, 33 -83.2, and 33 -83.3 are deemed unfit for human habitation or-use and shall be so placarded. 33 -83.1 The structure lacks illumination, ventilation, sanita- tion, heat, or other facilities adequate to protect the health and safety of the occupants or the public. 33 -83.2 The structure is damaged, decayed, dilapidated, insanitary, unsafe, or vermin- infested in such a manner as to create a serious hazard to the health and safety of the occupants or the public. 33 -83.3 The structure, because of the location, general condi- tions, state of the premises, or number of occupants, is so insani- tary, unsafe, overcrowded, or otherwise detrimental to health and safety that it creates a serious hazard to the occupants or the public. Section 33 -84 Removal of Placard No person shall deface or remove the placard from any structure which has been designated as unfit for human habitation until written approval is secured from the Chief Building Inspector. Section 33 -85 Demolition as Compliance Any owner of a building receiving a notice of violation stating that such building does not comply with the provisions of this chapter may demolish the building and such action shall be deemed compliance. Section 33 -86 Vacated Dwelling Made Secure The owner, agent, or operator of any structure which has been de- signated as unfit for human habitation or use and vacated pursuant to any order by the Urban Rehabilitation Standards Board shall make such structure safe and secure in whatever manner the Board may re- quire. Any vacant building open at the doors and windows, if un- guarded, shall be deemed dangerous to human life and a nuisance within the meaning of these provisions. 1= ARTICLE VII. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS Section 33 -87 Existing Remedies Nothing in this chapter shall be deemed to abolish or impair ex- isting remedies of the City of Baytown, Texas, or its officers or agencies relative to the removal or demolition of any buildings which are deemed to be dangerous, unsafe, or insanitary. Section 33 -88 Applicability of the Building Code Whenever the provisions of this chapter require the construction, installation, alteration, or repair of a dwelling, lodging or boardinghouse or of its facilities, utilities, or equipment, the required work shall be done in full compliance with the applicable provisions of the Building Code, or as otherwise required herein. Section 33 -89 Authority to Act on Nuisances Nothing in this chapter shall be deemed to abolish or impair any existing remedies of the city or its officers or agencies relating to the removal or abatement of nuisances or to the removal or demoli- tion of any buildings which are deemed to be dangerous, unsafe, or insanitary. Section 33 -90 Conflicts With Other Ordinances, etc. In any case where a provision of this chapter is found to be in conflict with a provision of any zoning, building, fire, safety, or health ordinance or any regulation adopted pursuant thereto, or any other ordinance, or code, or regulation of the city, the provision which establishes the higher standard for the promotion of the health and safety of the people shall prevail. Section 33 -91 Issuance of Permits or Licenses to Conform to This Chapter All departments, officials, and employees of the city which have the duty or authority to issue permits or licenses in regard to the construction, installation, repair, use, or occupancy of dwellings, dwelling premises, or dwelling equipment or facilities shall conform to the provisions of this Chapter. Any permit or license issued in conflict with the provisions of this Chapter, is voidable at the option of the City. Section 33 -92 Shift of Responsibilities Between Owner, Operator, and Occupant Nothing in this chapter shall prevent an owner, operator, or occupant from contracting with regard to the responsibility as between them- selves of complying with this Chapter, provided that the primary and final responsibility from the city's standpoint in every case shall remain upon the person herein designated. Section 33 -93 Prosecution of Existing Violations This chapter shall not affect violations of any other ordinances, codes, or regulations of the city existing prior to the effective date of this chapter, and such violations shall be governed and shall continue to be punishable to the full extent of the law under the provisions of these ordinances, codes, or regulations in effect at the time the violation was committed. Section 33 -94 Administrative Relationships All of the regulations provided in this Code and the functions and duties of all officers, agents, servants or employees of the City of Baytown in the enforcement hereof are hereby declared to be governmental and for the benefit of the general public. No officer, agent, or sm employee of the City of Baytown shall render himself per sonalky liable for any damage that may accrue to persons or property as a result of any act required or permitted in the dischargo of his duties under this chapTer. Any suit brought against any officer, agent, or employee of tho City of Baytown as a result of any act required or permitted in the discharge of his duties under this chapter shall be defended by the City Attorney until the final determination of the proceedings therein. Section 33-95 Penalties Any person who knowingly and willfully violates any provision of this chapter shall upon conviction be subject to as fine of not more than two hundred dollars ($200). Each day that such violation is permitted to continua Wall constitute a separate offunse. The term, person, as used in this section shall include the owner, occupant, mortgagee, or vendee in possession, assignee or rents, receiver, ex- ecutor, trustee, lessee, agant, or any other person, firm, or corpora- tion directly or indirectly in control of a building or part thereof. Section 2: Qvings Clause If any provision, section, exception, subsection, paragraph, sentence, tION,, clause or phrase of this ordinance or the application of same to any person or set of circumstances, shall for any reason be held uncon- stitutional, or void or invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the validity of the remaining provisions of this ordinance or their appli- cation to other persons ur sets of circumstances and ra this end all provisions of this ordinance are declared to be soverablera, Section 3: Repealing Clause All ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent with the tenns, M this ordinance are hereby repealed; provided, however, that such re- peal shall be only to the extent of such inconsistency and in all other respects this or` dinanca shall be cumulative of other ordinances regulating and governing tho subject matter covered by this ordinance. Section 4: Effective Date This ordinance shall take offect from and after ten (10) days after its passage by the City Council. The City Clerk is hereby directed to give notice hereof by causing the caption of this ordinance to be published in the official newspaper of the City of Baytown at least twice within ten days after its passage. INTRODUCED, READ und PASSED by the affirmative vote of a majority of the City Council of the City of Baytown, this the 22nd day of August, 1968. I IV, 6e" Seaborn Cravey, Mayor ATTEST: Edna Oliver-, (.'J ANIR'OVED. C i [7, fat Ham R. Laughlin, " )ja f 'I� J '�l 0 Y -20-