§ 24-121. Definitions.

For the purposes of this division the following words and phrases shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them by this section:

Exceptional conditions shall mean conditions in the nature of emergencies arising out of the occurrence of accidents, fires, natural disasters, riots and the like; also, conditions which, in the opinion and judgment of the chief of police or his delegate, constitute an unusual and compelling need to obstruct any street, highway or alley at a time and to an extent prohibited by this division. Such factors as health, safety, unavailability of reasonable alternatives, the prevention of undue waste and the relative inconvenience to the public or obstructions at different locations shall be considered in determining whether or not there exists an unusual and compelling need.

Minimal obstruction shall mean any obstruction that allows the passage of motor vehicles, of all sizes and kinds normally operated upon public streets, including fire trucks, by or around the obstructing vehicle upon such street or highway in as many lanes and directions of travel as are normally available for such travel in the absence of such obstruction, provided that a space of at least ten (10) feet of width is left available for each such lane in each direction of travel.

Nonresidential areas shall mean all streets, highways and alleys lying within the city, except those within areas zoned for residential purposes.

Obstruction shall mean the occupancy of some part of any street or highway, which part is normally used for travel by moving vehicles, by any stopped motor vehicle or trailer normally pulled thereby while loading or unloading its contents.

Partial obstruction shall mean such obstruction that does not allow the passage of vehicles in as many lanes as are normally available but does allow such passage as is defined as "minimal obstruction" in at least one (1) lane where such street or highway has two (2) lanes of travel, exclusive of parking lanes, or, where such street has more than two (2) such lanes, "partial obstruction" shall mean such obstruction that allows such passage in at least two (2) lanes, provided such lanes may be lawfully used for travel in opposite directions.

Residential areas shall mean all streets, highways and alleys lying within those areas within the city which are zoned for residential purposes.

Total obstruction shall mean obstruction that does not permit the passage of vehicles, or obstruction that leaves available for passage a space of less than twelve (12) feet of width. In determining whether or not an obstruction is "total," the occupancy of street and highway space by other vehicles in proximity shall be taken into account.

(Code 1976, § 30-199)

Cross reference

Definitions and rules of construction generally, § 1-2.