§ 12-147. Sidewalk vents or light wells.

(a)

Unless closed by a metal grill having no openings that will allow the passage of a cylinder over one-half (1/2) inch in diameter, all sidewalk vents and light wells of business buildings are required to be rodent-proofed by one of the following methods as prescribed by the Health Officer:

(1)

By covering the opening in the side wall or foundation of the building with wire cloth of nineteen (19) gauge or heavier having a mesh of one-half (1/2) inch of less, which will be securely fastened in place with cement mortar or on a tight fitting frame. If it is necessary to gain entrance to the well for any purpose a frame should be installed that can be easily removed, or the frame may be attached by hinges.

(2)

By partially closing the openings in the foundation or wall of the building with masonry and treating the remaining opening as in Subsection (a)(1) of this Section;

(3)

In lieu of the above described procedures for the rodent-stoppage of light wells and sidewalk vents the following method may be used in suitable instances:

A wire cloth basket should be constructed of nineteen (19) gauge or heavier wire cloth having a mesh of one-half (1/2) or smaller which conforms to the dimensions of the light well or sidewalk vent with sides not less than twelve (12) inches deep. In the case of large baskets, the edges and corners should be reinforced with twenty-four (24) gauge or heavier metal and cross supports of the same material used if necessary. The wire basket should be securely fastened to the edges of the light well or vent so that it can be removed to empty accumulated trash when necessary.

(4)

When agreeable to the person in charge of the business building, the openings of sidewalk vents or light wells may be entirely closed with cement mortar; and,

(5)

If deemed necessary the Health Officer may require that the bottom and sides of light wells shall be rodent-proofed with cement or masonry, making at least one (1) hole per square foot in the bottom one-half (1/2) inch in diameter for drainage.

(Ord. and Res. 1963, Sec. 9-12; CB-127-1987)