Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Temporary Housing topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Ferrysburg planners set public hearing on draft ordinance to allow temporary RV housing after home damage
Summary
The planning commission agreed to schedule a public hearing on a draft ordinance that would allow temporary on‑site living in recreational vehicles after a home is damaged, with proposed permit conditions including hookups and time limits; staff will refine renewal language before the hearing.
The Ferrysburg Planning Commission agreed to send a draft ordinance to public hearing that would allow residents to use recreational vehicles for temporary on‑site housing after damage or destruction to a principal dwelling. The proposal would allow temporary living in an RV through a zoning permit tied to required hookups and a time limit.
Planner David, presenting the draft, said the ordinance (proposed Section 3.19g) would "recognize the need for temporary on‑site living arrangements resulting from damage or destruction to the principal residential dwelling" and would allow a one‑year zoning permit with up to two one‑year extensions for unforeseen circumstances, while requiring water, sanitary sewer and electricity connections.
Why it matters: Commissioners said the change would give residents a clear, legal path to remain on their property during long rebuilds after fires, floods or storms, and would remove uncertainty created by ad hoc arrangements. Commissioners debated the permit length and whether extensions should be automatic or require a written request so staff and the commission can track progress.
Details and debate: The draft also gives the zoning administrator discretion to waive yard setback requirements when construction activities, equipment or material stockpiles make typical placement impractical, and would require the site to return to compliance within 15 days of a certificate of occupancy for the repaired dwelling. Several commissioners worried a one‑year initial permit with two possible yearlong extensions could let temporary housing remain in place for multiple years without oversight; alternatives discussed included six‑month renewal intervals or requiring applicants to request extensions in writing.
Next steps: Commissioners asked staff to clarify extension procedures and whether fees would apply, then scheduled the ordinance for a public hearing at the next meeting. The commission did not adopt the ordinance tonight; the hearing will allow public comment and final revisions before any formal action.
