§ 20-26. Examination of premises; removal of hazardous material.

(a)

The fire chief shall examine all premises in which he may apprehend danger from fire to exist and make such order in regard thereto as in his opinion will best guard against such danger; and it shall be his duty to order that all shavings, powder, coal oil, gasoline or other inflammable or explosive material be removed from such places that may, in his opinion, be hazardous, to places of safety, at the expense of the owner thereof.

(b)

Every order given by the fire chief to any person in regard to dangerous places or materials shall be in writing, duly dated and signed by the fire chief, stating the time in which such removal shall be made, and he shall retain a copy thereof in his office.

(c)

In case any person shall neglect or refuse to obey such order when given, it shall be the duty of the fire chief to cause such person to be arrested.

(d)

In case of imminent danger from fire, verbal notice under this section shall be sufficient, and if not obeyed, the fire chief may take such steps as will avoid the danger, and for such purpose, he may enter any premises necessary to avoid the danger.

(Code 1971, § 8-39; Code 1991, § 8-46)

State law reference

Authority of city to regulate, control conditions which may cause, promote fires and provide for inspection of same, RSMo 79.450(3).