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Wheat Ridge council reviews limits on RV parking in parks to protect recreational access
Summary
City staff proposed ordinance language to limit RV parking in parks and the greenbelt — including a three‑consecutive‑day maximum and a formal definition of 'recreational vehicle'— after residents raised ADA access, waste‑dumping and safety concerns. Council asked staff to refine definitions, dumping rules and size standards before drafting the ordinance.
City staff presented draft changes to Wheat Ridge City code on June 1 aimed at limiting extended RV parking in parks, trails and open‑space areas so public recreation areas remain accessible.
Division Chief Eric Kellogg told the council staff had observed an increase in long‑term RV stays and was proposing code language to add a formal definition of “recreational vehicle,” limit parking to posted park hours and designated oversize spaces, and cap parking at a maximum of three consecutive days. “The ordinance aims to prevent long‑term occupancy … and lastly it supports fair access and intended recreational use,” Kellogg said.
Why it matters: Council members said extended RV presence was creating equity and safety problems for some users. Kellogg cited incidents the city investigated, including an RV blocking ADA access at an Anderson Park trailhead and alleged improper disposal of tanks at Prospect Park. “This camper parked in such a way that this individual in a wheelchair couldn't get through,” he said; staff also described an incident that frightened a neurodiverse park user.
Council members sought technical changes before advancing a formal ordinance. They asked staff to (1) refine the RV definition to distinguish RVs from mobile homes and conversion vans, (2) add or confirm prohibitions against dumping gray/black water (or import language from chapter 16 nuisance code if appropriate), and (3) set a measurable size/length threshold for what qualifies as an “oversized” parking spot. Council Member Larson recommended a clarifying phrase so the code’s statement that “RVs are not intended to be permanent residences” applies for the purposes of the parks section and does not attempt to adjudicate an individual's housing status.
Staff described enforcement and social‑service coordination practices. Kellogg said officers work with co‑responders, homeless navigators and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to de‑escalate encounters, connect vehicle‑dwellers with services and arrange safe storage of belongings when vehicles are moved. He also said some faith‑based groups and neighboring jurisdictions maintain ad hoc or rotating safe‑parking programs and that city officers are aware of and refer people to those resources.
Next steps: Council provided direction for staff to draft revisions incorporating the three technical items and to return with a revised ordinance. No formal motion or vote was taken; the item proceeded as study‑session guidance.
