If at the expiration of the time specified in an order to repair a building, the owner has failed to signify in writing an intention to make the repairs, or if at expiration of the time prescribed in an order to raze or remove a building, or to clear and improve premises, the owner has failed to comply with the order, the state fire marshal may file in the circuit court of the county in which the building or premises is situated a petition signed and verified by the state fire marshal, setting forth the facts relating to the making and service of the order, and praying for the issuance of an order to show cause under the rules and practices of the court. Upon the filing of the petition, and the presentation of the petition to the court either in chambers or otherwise, the court shall immediately issue an order requiring the defendant or defendants named in the petition to show cause at a time specified in the order why the order of the state fire marshal should not be complied with. Service of the order shall be made in a manner and within a time as the court directs. Upon the return day fixed in the order the cause shall stand to be heard upon the petition and the return of the respondent, without further pleadings, and proofs taken in open court, and the court shall make a determination as considered just and proper. The court may modify or change the order of the state fire marshal according to the facts and circumstances as shown by the proofs, or may affirm the order and direct compliance with the order upon terms and conditions as the court imposes. If a respondent named in the order to show cause fails to appear or make return, that failure shall be taken as an admission of the facts alleged in the petition, and the court may take the proofs as considered required and make determination of the cause as provided in this section. The court may retain jurisdiction of the cause during a time as it determines to secure specific performance of the order or direction of the court in the premises. An injunction shall not issue to stay any of the proceedings in the cause.