scope:

The provisions of this code shall apply to all existing residential and nonresidential structures and all existing premises and constitute minimum requirements and standards for premises, structures, equipment and facilities for light, ventilation, space, heating, sanitation, protection from the elements, life safety, safety from fire and other hazards, and for safe and sanitary maintenance; the responsibility of owners, operators and occupants; the occupancy of existing structures and premises, and for administration, enforcement and penalties.

This section establishes the broad purpose of the code-to protect the public health, safety and welfare in both existing residential and nonresidential structures and on all existing premises.

• Four specific areas are addressed in greater detail in subsequent sections:

• Establishing minimum maintenance standards for such elements as basic equipment, light, ventilation, heating, sanitation and fire safety.

• Fixing responsibility among owners, operators and occupants for following the code.

• Regulating the use of existing structures and premises.

• Providing for administration, enforcement and penalties.

These four categories provide communities with the tools to reduce risks created by deteriorated or unsafe buildings and help communities upgrade and maintain other existing structures.

Purpose

Chapter 1 establishes the necessary legal basis for enforcement of the code by the authority having jurisdiction. All of the police powers inherent in enforcing minimum standards for the use and maintenance of buildings must follow the line of authority, from the U.S. Constitution to the state to the actual enforcer. Chapter 1 defines the role and responsibilities of the authority having jurisdiction. To protect all parties from an unfair enforcement action, this chapter also sets forth the due process that requires corrective actions to be accomplished in a constitutional manner. Police powers are not unlimited, and this chapter identifies those limitations.