§ 11-112. Additional powers of public officer.

(a)

The public officer may determine, under existing ordinances, that a dwelling, building, or structure is unfit for human habitation or is unfit for its current commercial, industrial, or business use if he finds that conditions exist in such building, dwelling, or structure which are dangerous or injurious to the health, safety, or morals of the occupants of such dwelling, building, or structure; of the occupants of neighborhood dwellings, buildings, or structures; or of other residents of such County or municipality. Such conditions may include the following (without limiting the generality of the foregoing):

(1)

Defects therein increasing the hazards of fire, accidents, or other calamities;

(2)

Lack of adequate ventilation, light, or sanitary facilities;

(3)

Dilapidation;

(4)

Disrepair;

(5)

Structural defects; and

(6)

Uncleanliness.

(b)

The public officer may determine, under existing ordinances, that a dwelling, building, or structure is vacant, dilapidated, and being used in connection with the commission of drug crimes upon personal observation or report of a law enforcement agency and evidence of drug crimes being committed.

(c)

In addition to such powers as may be necessary or convenient to carry out and effectuate the purpose and provisions of this article, the public officer may:

(1)

Investigate the dwelling conditions in the City in order to determine which dwellings, buildings, or structures therein are unfit for human habitation or are unfit for current commercial, industrial, or business use or are vacant, dilapidated, and being used in connection with the commission of drug crimes;

(2)

Administer oaths and affirmations, to examine witnesses, and to receive evidence;

(3)

Enter upon premises for the purpose of making examinations; provided, however, that such entries shall be made in such manner as to cause the least possible inconvenience to the persons in possession;

(4)

Appoint and fix the duties of such officers, agents, and employees as he deems necessary to carry out the purposes of this article; and

(5)

Delegate any of his functions and powers under this article to such officers and agents as he may designate.

State law reference

Mandatory provisions, O.C.G.A. §§ 41-2-10, 41-2-11.