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Resident asks council to revisit Chapter 169 recreational vehicle rules after enforcement
Summary
A Saco resident told the council his sister was told she could not occupy an RV on private property under Chapter 169, though other temporary options (garage or tent) appeared allowed; he urged the city to consider exceptions or amendments amid tight seasonal housing costs.
Tony Robinson (18 Douglas Avenue) addressed the council during public comment on July 14 about enforcement of Chapter 169 (Recreational Vehicle Code). Robinson said his sister, returning to Maine after a long career, sought temporary housing in a trailer on his property while house hunting. A code enforcement officer reportedly told the resident that no one may occupy a recreational vehicle on private property under the current code.
Robinson said the restriction appeared inconsistent with other temporary accommodations because his sister could stay in a detached garage or a tent but not in an RV, and that several other neighbors in his area appeared to have trailers in place without enforcement. He described the situation as temporary while his sister searches for housing and asked the council to consider revising the ordinance to allow reasonable exceptions.
Why it matters: Local zoning and code enforcement affect housing flexibility, short‑term shelter options and how the city responds to informal housing choices during the busy summer season.
What comes next: Council members asked staff to provide information about the ordinance and enforcement options so the council can consider whether amendments or clarifications are appropriate.
Ending: Councilors said they would ask Code Enforcement to brief council or return information about the ordinance and any waiver processes.
