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Rathdrum adopts ordinance banning public camping and sleeping; council removes homeowner exception
Summary
The council adopted a city code provision prohibiting public camping and sleeping in vehicles on public rights-of-way, removing an exception that would have allowed property owners to permit an RV or camper to sleep adjacent to their home for short periods.
The Rathdrum City Council adopted a new ordinance (Rathdrum City Code §5-3-3) prohibiting camping or sleeping in vehicles on public rights-of-way within the city. During debate the council removed a proposed exception (subsection c) that would have allowed property owners to permit a camper or RV to sleep adjacent to their residence for up to one week per calendar year.
City staff presented a draft ordinance derived from neighboring code language; councilors discussed enforcement discretion and public safety. Supporters who spoke at the earlier public comment period had asked for an ability to allow short-term family visits in RVs in front of private homes; opponents feared that allowing exceptions could create enforcement and public-safety issues and allow private control of public right-of-way.
After discussion the council voted to adopt the ordinance with subsection c removed; the ordinance will be published by summary and take effect per standard ordinance publication schedules. Staff said existing parking restrictions and winter-season rules (October–March) remain in place and that the police will retain discretion to enforce public-safety or obstruction violations.
Councilors said the change balances neighborhood character and safety while giving the city clearer enforcement language. The council also directed staff to monitor complaints and provide updates if enforcement questions arise.
