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Ashland council clarifies ordinance on storage of boats, RVs and trailers after public outcry
Summary
Council approved first reading of an ordinance tightening language that bans long‑term storage of recreational vehicles and trailers in front/side yards, prompting a lengthy public comment session in which residents expressed concerns about enforcement, clarity, and consequences described in staff letters.
City council on July 15 approved on first reading amended language aimed at clarifying Ashland’s long‑standing policy that prohibits long‑term storage of recreational vehicles, boats and trailers in front and side yards.
The Mayor said the change does not create a new policy but sharpens wording after a resident contested a citation earlier this year. Under the revised ordinance language presented to council, recreational vehicles — including watercraft and their trailers — “may only be parked for 72 hours or less in the front and side yards for loading and unloading or temporary storage.” Long‑term storage is allowed in backyards; occupied campers remain prohibited as permanent dwellings.
Public comment: The item drew an extensive public comment period. Multiple residents said they were surprised by the enforcement letter language they received; one speaker, who identified himself as the person whose citation prompted the change, said a notice he received implied he was already guilty of a misdemeanor. Assistant Law Director Andrew Bush and the Mayor responded, saying the letter advised potential penalties but that guilt is determined only by a court.
Residents raised clarifying questions about the ordinance’s scope: whether common trailers (lawn‑mower trailers, utility trailers), unlicensed recreational vehicles, or driveways that functionally sit in the front yard would be covered. Council and staff said the clarified language is intended to capture typical recreational vehicles and trailers but acknowledged the city cannot list every possible trailer type. Staff said enforcement is complaint‑driven and usually results in a notice and a 30‑day compliance window rather than immediate fines.
Why it matters: The ordinance affects hundreds of households and raised concerns about property rights, neighborhood aesthetics, enforcement consistency, and impacts on seniors or residents with small lots who said they lack backyard storage room. Council members urged clarity and noted city staff will update enforcement notices to avoid language implying guilt before court action.
Next steps: Council approved first reading, suspended rules for expedited consideration, and passed the ordinance to the next steps for final adoption. Staff said they can revise enforcement letters to make clear a letter is a notice of violation and not a conviction.
