Questions regarding property nuisance abatement procedures

[lee96008]

What is the name of your state? Georgia

Seeking Legal Clarification on Abatement Process and Property Owner Rights

I have several questions regarding a court-ordered abatement for the removal of debris, abandoned vehicles, and other items from private property. I'm hoping to get some clarification on the legal aspects, particularly under the Macon-Bibb County Municipal Code.

1. When city/county trucks and officials arrive to begin the removal process, can they legally require the property owner to leave the premises? The court order did not specify that the owner could not be present. Is it within their legal rights to stay on their property during the process?

2. Should the property owner receive documentation detailing the total amount of debris removed, such as the number of cubic yards? What is the standard practice, and is there a legal requirement for this?

3. When the Finance Department files a lien on the property for the abatement costs, are they required to notify the property owner by certified mail? What are the legal obligations in terms of providing notice?

4. If the final amount charged is reduced by the value of items that were recycled, are there requirements for providing documentation of these amounts? Should the property owner receive a detailed record showing what was recycled, where, and the amount they received?

5. During the removal process, the septic lines on the property were damaged by city/county trucks, leading to significant repairs. Can the city/county be held liable for this damage? What is the process for pursuing compensation in such cases?

For context, the property owner attended all court hearings and was actively trying to clear the debris, despite being hindered by two motorcycle accidents that resulted in significant injuries. Although the property owner acknowledges the need for the abatement, there are concerns about the transparency and fairness of the process.

Any guidance or references to specific legal statutes or regulations would be greatly appreciated. The Macon-Bibb County Municipal Code provides a broad overview, but I’m having difficulty finding detailed information on the abatement process and the procedures for determining and disputing costs. I have also referenced the Code Enforcement Regulations and could find no further information.

Thank you for any assistance or advice you can provide.

 

[AlmostThere]

I assume you are talking about this: http://maconbibbcounty.elaws.us/code/coor_ptiii_ch6_artii_sec6-26

It sounds like a lot is going to depend upon the condition of the property, and what the county needs to do to bring it into an acceptable condition. I would start by calling a lawyer.

 

[adjusterjack]

Any guidance or references to specific legal statutes or regulations would be greatly appreciated.

That your accumulated junk ended up in court suggests that it was present for a very long time and that you received numerous complaints and citations before the axe fell.

Nit picking the legal process isn't going to change what happened or reduce the consequences.

If you want to sue the county for anything you are going to need a lawyer. That's going to cost you thousands with very little chance of success. If you have thousands of dollars you could have paid somebody to remove your junk rather quickly.

By the way, your homeowners insurance might cover the damage done to your septic lines by the weight of vehicles. Check that out.