Owner ordered to open shutters at 716 S. 7th St. to meet emergency-escape rules

Code enforcement officer Charmaine Kirkland presented photographs showing accordion shutters covering windows that serve as emergency-escape openings at 716 South 7th Street. Owner Ethel Green said she had kept shutters closed after attempted break-ins and that certain windows are part of a single room with other exits; she asked whether shutters could remain partially closed for security. City staff emphasized that, except during a named storm, shutters used as a security device on an occupied property are not permitted to block emergency egress. "Technically, unless there's a named storm... you shouldn't have shutters up throughout the property," a staff member said.

The magistrate ordered removal or partial opening of the shutters within seven days to ensure compliance with IPMC 702.4 (emergency escape openings); staff and the court suggested non-structural security measures (signs, cameras) to address safety concerns. Failure to comply will trigger a $100-per-day fine and a 30-day appeal window.