City attorney outlines proposed rewrite of Meridian parks code, including short‑term vendor rules, noise policy and new arborist duties

The Meridian City Council heard an overview April 8 of a proposed rewrite of the parks and recreation code that would move those chapters into Title 5 of the Meridian City Code and streamline permitting, enforcement and tree care provisions.

Deputy City Attorney Emily Kane led the presentation and said the rewrite is part of the citywide 2021–2025 strategic plan to review ordinances and simplify processes. "One thing that I'm recommending is that we move the parks and recreation code from title 13 to title 5," Kane told the council.

Why it matters: the proposed code would change permit timeframes, clarify enforcement authority and penalties, set clearer rules for commercial activity in parks and add a city arborist role and tree‑care standards. Those changes affect how park reservations, vendors, amplified sound, pathway use and tree damage are handled by city staff and police.

Key proposed changes and clarifications: - Reorganization: Parks provisions currently in Title 13 would move to Title 5; certain fire‑related and administrative provisions would be relocated to Title 4 or Title 1. - Short‑term…