Sec. 5-32. - Right of access for inspection.
Part of the Code of Ordinances of East Providence, RI.
The text
(a)
The owner, operator or occupant of every nonresidential structure or dwelling place of four or more units or the person in charge thereof shall give the chief of the department or his designate free access to such nonresidential structure or dwelling place of four or more units between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. for the purposes of inspection, examination and survey. Every occupant of a nonresidential structure or dwelling place of four or more units shall give the owner or operator thereof or any person designated by the owner or operator access to any part of such nonresidential structure or dwelling place of four or more units between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. for the purpose of examination and for making such repairs or alterations as are necessary to effect compliance with the provisions of this article or with any rule or regulation adopted pursuant thereto or with any notice of violation pursuant to the provision of this article. The chief of the department or his designate and the owner, occupant, or other person in charge of nonresidential structures or dwelling place of four or more units may agree to an inspection by appointment at a time other than the hours provided in this section.
(b)
If any owner, occupant, or other person refuses, impedes, inhibits, interferes with, restricts, or obstructs entry and free access to every part of the structure, operation, or premises where inspection authorized by this Code is sought, the chief of the department or his designate may:
(1)
Seek in a court of competent jurisdiction a search warrant so as to apprise the owner, occupant, or other person concerning the nature of the inspection and justification for it, and may seek the assistance of police authorities in presenting the warrant; and/or
(2)
Revoke or suspend any license, permit, or other permission regulated under this Code where inspection of the structures, operation or premises, is sought to determine compliance with this Code.
(Rev. Ords. 1987, § 5-9)