A. When it is necessary to enforce the provisions of the Cle Elum Municipal Code, or when a code enforcement officer has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a building or upon a premises a condition that is contrary to or in violation of this code, the code enforcement officer may enter the building or premises at reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed by this code; provided, that if such building or premises be occupied, that credentials be presented to the occupant and entry requested. If such building or premises be unoccupied, the code enforcement officer shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other person having charge or control of the building or premises and request entry. If entry is refused, the code enforcement officer shall have recourse to the remedies provided by law to secure entry.

B. Posted Property. Where private property is posted with a “No Trespassing” sign and has a gate or chain on private property, or where private property is enclosed by a secured gate or chain (other than by a simple latching or closure device), a city employee shall not make entry beyond areas open to the public without the express permission of the property owner or resident or a court order. No employee shall be required to enter a posted or gated piece of property if the employee feels threatened, intimidated, or otherwise in fear of his or her personal safety.

C. Employee Identification. City employees shall carry identification cards while on duty. Any employee, when legitimately requested by the public, shall show the requesting party his or her identification card.

D. Intimidation of Employees. Threats, intimidation, or other violations of public peace directed against an employee engaged in lawful action upon private property are unlawful and may subject that person and the owner of the property, as applicable, to legal action.