§ 15-6. Convenience store security standards; penalties.

As used in this section, the term convenience store means a business that is engaged primarily in the retail sale of groceries or motor fuels or special fuels and may offer food services to the public. Businesses providing motor fuel or special fuel to the public which also offer groceries or food service are included in the definition of a convenience store.

Every convenience store shall maintain the following security standards:

(a) A cash management policy to limit the cash on hand at all times;

(b) A conspicuous notice at the entrance which states that the cash register contains fifty dollars ($50.00) or less;

(c) A convenience store shall not have window tinting that reduces the exterior or interior view in a normal line of sight;

(d) A drop safe or cash management device for restricted access to cash receipts;

(e) A lighted parking lot illuminated at an intensity of at least two (2) foot-candles per square foot at eighteen (18) inches above the surface;

(f) A security camera system capable of recording and retrieving an image to assist in offender identification and apprehension;

(g) Height markers at the entrance of the convenience store which display height measures;

(h) Window signage that allows a clear and unobstructed view from outside the building and in a normal line of sight of the cash register and sales transaction area.

A code or law enforcement officer is authorized to issue a citation to an owner or operator of a convenience store when, based upon personal investigation, the officer has reasonable cause to believe that the owner or operator has committed a civil infraction in violation of this section. The person shall pay within thirty (30) days from the date a citation was issued a civil penalty of two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) to the police department in full satisfaction of the violation. If the person chooses to contest the citation, he or she must contact the clerk of the county court within the thirty (30) days and request a court hearing.

(Ord. No. 2007-27, § 1, 8-7-07)