Council considers clamping down on RVs as homes

PENDLETON – The Pendleton City Council has had the first reading of a proposed change to the city’s traffic ordinance that would regulate recreational vehicles parked in public places. The change would basically ban RVs from parking on public streets to be used as living spaces.

There are exceptions. For example, in residential areas people can currently have RVs with occupants parked on the street in front of their homes for 14 days.

“We’re changing that to 72 hours,” Mayor John Turner said. “Now, if you want to have guests for longer than that, all you have to do is call the chief of police or (City Manager) Robb Corbett and they can grant you an extension.”

The city manager or police chief would also have to authorize RVs that are used as living quarters during an active construction project. All RVs must be appropriately registered with Department of Motor Vehicles.

A recreational vehicle on public property in violation of the new ordinance would be towed 72 hours after notice is delivered, unless it poses an immediate threat to public safety, at which time it can be towed immediately. The cost of towing is the responsibility of the owner.

The second reading, a public hearing, and a vote are set for the city council’s next meeting on Feb. 7.

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Elkhorn Media Group

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