Clinton council to workshop rules for RVs and motorhomes after rising encampments

City zoning officials and councilmembers agreed to hold a workshop to study potential rules for recreational vehicles and motorhomes after several council members and staff described growing occurrences of multiple RVs being used as residences around town.

Zoning Chief Tim Clark told the council that RVs and motorhomes are “popping up everywhere” and said neighboring municipalities typically limit detached recreational vehicles to one per residence, require them to be parked beside or behind the house, and prevent permanent habitation and direct sewer hookups. He asked the zoning commission to consider recommendations before the council drafts an ordinance.

Water and sewer Superintendent Will Henchin flagged infrastructure questions that must be resolved before permitting any permanent hookups, noting the department’s concern about sewer taps and whether the system is designed for additional permanent connections. “The health department just requires before I make a tap for an RV house or anything that they either have a perk test or access to the city sewer,” Henchin said.

Council members discussed enforcement limits and community reaction to any restrictions. Several council members emphasized the need to workshop the matter with zoning so affected residents have notice and opportunity for input before the council considers formal rules.

The council approved an appointment to the AMP commission (Christy Eastridge) during the same agenda block, but took no ordinance action on RVs at this meeting. Staff will return with draft options after the zoning commission reviews model ordinances and proposed standards.