§ 16-42. Order to cease operations; hearing and decision by City engineer and administrative assistant.

A. 

If the oil and gas inspector finds that, in his judgment, a hazard to life or natural resources exists, he shall order immediate rectification of the cause. If the permittee takes no immediate measure to reduce the hazard, or if the situation is so perilous as to constitute an imminent threat to safety, he may order the prompt cessation of activity and, if necessary, the clearance of the premises.

B. 

The oil and gas inspector shall apply to the City engineer and administrative assistant for a hearing upon such order, which hearing shall be held not longer than twenty-four hours after the issuance of such order by the oil and gas inspector. The City engineer and administrative assistant shall determine if proper cause existed and, if not, shall order the permittee's activity to resume without delay. If the City engineer and administrative assistant determine that proper cause did exist for the order to cease activity to issue, they shall make whatever ruling is proper to assure rectification of the cause of the peril. Such ruling and compliance with it by the permittee shall not be construed to absolve the permittee of any liability for any violation of this chapter for any damage or injury caused thereby.