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Commission tables second reading of RV parking ordinance after further debate about measuring right-of-way
Summary
The commission postponed a second-reading vote on an ordinance that would expand where homeowners may park recreational vehicles on residential lots, citing concerns about enforceability of right-of-way measurements and public notice discrepancies.
Commissioners postponed a second-reading vote on a revised ordinance regulating parking and storage of recreational vehicles (RVs) on residential property. The proposed ordinance would allow parking of RVs in side yards, back yards or driveways provided they are not in public right-of-way, are operable, licensed and not used for living or sleeping.
Why it matters: The change would expand where RVs may be parked on private residential lots, affecting compliance and code enforcement practices across the city while balancing neighborhood appearance concerns.
Issues raised: Commissioners and staff discussed how to define and enforce a restriction tied to the public right-of-way. Commissioner Peebles suggested replacing a vague “right-of-way” reference with a measurable distance from the center of the road or the edge of pavement so code officers and residents can enforce and self-check more easily. Public works staff warned the center-of-road or edge-of-pavement approaches could produce uneven results because roads are not always centered within right-of-way lines and subdivisions are not always perfectly platted, which could create fairness and enforcement issues. The city attorney, Amy Myers, said measuring from the edge of pavement might still produce inequities where the road is offset.
Public input and outcome: Several residents, including a representatives for seniors and residents opposing front-yard RV parking, spoke during public comment. Commissioner Vandegrift said she opposed allowing RVs in front yards and supported side- and back-yard storage only. After discussion, Commissioner Ward moved to table the ordinance until the next meeting so staff can clarify language and ensure the public packet and agenda accurately reflect the reading status; the motion to table passed unanimously.
Next steps: Staff will revise the draft ordinance language to address enforceability and measurement concerns and return the ordinance for further discussion at the next meeting.
