Commissioners, planners debate restrictions for mobile and manufactured homes as housing pressures rise

Planning staff led a policy-focused conversation about whether and how to change county rules for mobile homes, manufactured homes and RVs.

Staff said state statute constrains a total ban on mobile homes but proposed permitting mobile homes in select zones (an 'SN' zone was discussed) and limiting manufactured homes to models 15 years old or newer unless a conditional-use permit is approved. Commissioners questioned a strict 15-year cutoff and suggested using conditional-use permits to allow older but well-maintained homes. The discussion noted that moving older units can create difficulties for financing and code compliance and that manufactured homes have differing regulatory categories depending on year built (the meeting referenced the 1976 distinction between 'mobile' and 'manufactured' homes).

Participants also raised concerns that allowing manufactured homes or RVs in certain zones can create utility, sewer and density issues; planners said those infrastructure questions would need to be addressed where smaller lots or cluster-type developments are considered. Staff planned to meet with the Planning and Zoning Commission in July for more detailed ordinance drafting and to consider options such as conditional uses for older units, ADU (accessory-dwelling-unit) allowances using single-wide units, and clarifying whether RV rentals (Airbnb-style) are permissible under county code.

No ordinance changes were adopted at the meeting; commissioners asked staff to continue drafting possible code language, gather cost and infrastructure implications, and present options at a future meeting.