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Ordinance No. Page 6 DOCSOPEN-MU210-54-1034615.v1-6/25/25 every building and into each housing unit. Exterior walls and roofs must remain intact without holes. Vacant buildings shall be boarded when the building can no longer be secured against intrusion by the closing and locking of doors and windows in accordance with this chapter. (1) Architectural structural panels may be used to secure windows, doors and other openings provided they are cut to fit the opening and match the characteristics of the building. Architectural panels may be of exterior grade-finished plywood or Medium Density Overlaid plywood (MDO) that is painted to match the building exterior or covered with a reflective material such as plexi-glass to simulate windows. (2) Untreated plywood or similar structural panels or temporary construction fencing may be used to secure windows, doors and other openings for a maximum period of 14 days. (3) With prior approval of the compliance official, artistic options may be utilized to secure a vacant building. (4) The compliance official may take steps to immediately secure a vacant building at his or her discretion in emergency circumstances. (C) Fire safety. Owners of vacant buildings must comply with the Minnesota State Fire Code. (D) Plumbing, electrical, lighting, and heating. Owners of vacant buildings must comply with applicable city and state code provisions for the maintenance, repair, or removal of plumbing, electrical, lighting, and heating facilities or equipment. (E) Termination of utilities. The compliance official may require that water, sewer, electricity, or gas service to the vacant building be terminated or disconnected. Prior to the termination of any utility service, written notice must be given to the owner if possible, or posted directly at the property, unless an imminent hazard exists because of the utility. No utility may be restored until consent is given by the compliance official. Utilities may be discontinued at the request of the owner or responsible party as part of the approved vacant building property plan. The compliance official may authorize immediate termination of utilities at his or her discretion in emergency circumstances. (F) Exterior maintenance. The owner must comply with all applicable property maintenance regulations and city codes including, but not limited to, the following: (1) The owner must eliminate any activity on the property that constitutes a public nuisance as defined by city code. (2) Any weeds or grass must be no greater than eight (8) inches in height. (3) Exterior structure maintenance. The owner must maintain the vacant building in compliance with city code and building codes as determined to be necessary by the code official.