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Piperton OKs Limit on Street-Visible Vehicles to Six, Sets $50 Daily Civil Fine
Summary
The Board adopted Ordinance No. 417-26 on second reading, limiting the number of licensed, operable vehicles visible from a property to six with exceptions; enforcement includes notices and a civil fine of up to $50 per day. Residents raised concerns about multi-generational households and enforcement discretion.
The Piperton Board of Mayor and Commissioners voted unanimously on April 21 to adopt Ordinance No. 417-26, which limits the number of licensed, operable vehicles visible from the public right-of-way to six per household, with specified exceptions and a civil enforcement process.
Code Enforcement Officer Thomas Tucker told the Board staff chose six after reviewing other jurisdictions and local feedback: "six is a reasonable amount to have in the driveway or an approved parking pad," he said, adding that vehicles stored in garages or behind privacy fencing would generally be exempt from the visible-count restriction.
City Manager Steve Steinbach explained the ordinance includes an effective date 60 days after adoption to allow for a public-information campaign. He said the ordinance is intended to address "a handful of problematic situations" and is not meant to target normal household arrangements. The ordinance provides an annual courtesy review exemption for households with more licensed drivers.
Several residents questioned the limit during the public hearing. Brittany Beaver asked, "why not make the limit 10," and Josh Beaver argued that multi-generational households could be unfairly penalized if they lack enclosed storage. Commissioner Joel Townsend clarified the rule applies to vehicles visible from the street, not to vehicles stored behind fences or in garages.
On penalties and enforcement, Mr. Steinbach said the fine is a civil penalty of up to $50 per day and that enforcement will generally begin with notices and opportunities to come into compliance; the ordinance also provides a process for removal of vehicles if necessary. Thomas Tucker described the removal and notice procedures as a stepwise enforcement mechanism rather than immediate seizure.
The Board accepted Ordinance No. 417-26 on second reading by unanimous vote. The ordinance allows exemptions and describes a courtesy review process for households with multiple licensed drivers. Staff said they will run a 60-day notification and educational campaign before active enforcement begins.
