§ 6-708. Closing of abandoned excavations.

Any excavation for building purposes or any uncovered foundation which shall remain open for more than three months shall be deemed abandoned and a nuisance and the building inspector shall order that unless the erection of the building or structure on the excavation or foundation shall commence or continue forthwith, suitable safeguards shall be provided to prevent accidental injury to children or other frequenters or that the excavation or foundation be filled to grade. Such order shall be served upon the owner of record or the owner's agent, where an agent is in charge of the premises, and upon the holder of an encumbrance of record in the manner provided for service of a summons in the circuit court. If the owner or the holder of an encumbrance of record cannot be found, the order may be served by posting it on the premises and make publication in the official newspaper for two consecutive publications at least ten days before the time for compliance stated in the order commences to run. Such time shall be not less than 14 nor more than 20 days after service. If the owner of the land fails to comply with the order within the time required, the building inspector shall cause the excavation or foundation to be filled to grade. The cost of such abatement shall be charged against the real estate and entered on the next succeeding tax roll as a special charge and shall bear interest at a rate established by the village board from the date of the report by the building inspector on the cost thereof, pursuant to the provisions of Wis. Stats. § 66.0703.

(Code 1989, § 15-1-10(c))