Council seeks clearer rules on storage containers and yard storage; staff to align language with code enforcement

At the May 19 workshop, councilors raised multiple concerns about draft language that would prohibit yards from being used for storage, accumulation or placement of junk, and about rules restricting storage containers placed on property prior to the principal residence.

Several members said the draft phrase "no yard may be used for storage, accumulation or placement of junk automobiles or other motor vehicles" reads too broadly and could criminalize minor or reasonable storage items. They asked for a clearer definition of "junk," and requested cross-references to the code-enforcement section that already handles visible nuisances and public-health threats. Staff said code enforcement generally addresses items visible from the public right-of-way and that neighbor complaints trigger investigations; members asked staff to harmonize the sections to avoid contradictory standards.

On storage containers, staff and council noted that temporary placement for active construction should be allowed via a temporary use permit or administrative permit, while permanent placement without development progress should remain restricted. Members also expressed concern about storage containers being converted into living space (ADUs) and asked staff to check building-permit and occupancy requirements and whether additional code language is needed to limit conversion without full building review.

No formal action was taken; staff said they would review related code-enforcement language, check building-permit processes for container conversions and return with clarified draft text.