Chapter 10.40
USE OF RECREATIONAL VEHICLES AS DWELLINGS
Sections:
10.40.030 Use of recreational vehicles as dwellings.
10.40.010 Finding.
The use of recreational vehicles as dwellings may result in substandard housing and jeopardize public health and safety, and should be permitted only as set forth in this chapter. (Ord. 926 § 1, 2003).
10.40.020 Definitions.
A. For purposes of this chapter, the term “recreational vehicle” shall mean a wheeled vehicle primarily designed as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping or travel use, with or without motive power, of such size or weight as not to require a special highway movement permit and to be eligible to be licensed by the state as a recreational vehicle. The term includes camping trailers, travel trailers, fifth wheels, motor homes and truck campers, and other similar vehicles.
B. A “parked” recreational vehicle shall mean a recreational vehicle situated upon property not owned by the owner or operator of the recreational vehicle.
C. A “stored” recreational vehicle shall mean a recreational vehicle situated upon the property of the owner or operator thereof. (Ord. 926 § 1, 2003).
10.40.030 Use of recreational vehicles as dwellings.
A. It shall be unlawful to use a stored recreational vehicle as a dwelling. Except as specifically permitted in this section, it shall be unlawful to use a parked recreational vehicle as a dwelling. Such use of a recreational vehicle as a dwelling is also declared to constitute a public nuisance and shall be subject to abatement as provided in Chapter 8.16 SMC.
B. It shall be lawful to use a parked recreational vehicle as a dwelling only as follows:
1. Persons traveling with a recreational vehicle may reside in the recreational vehicle when parked upon private residential property with the host’s permission on a temporary basis, not to exceed 90 days in any one calendar year. Water must be available from the host, and holding tanks must be emptied as required at an approved dump station.
2. Persons to whom a valid residential building permit is given may reside in a recreational vehicle on a temporary basis, subject to the provisions of subsection C of this section, while the principal residential structure is being constructed or while a damaged residential building is being repaired, for so long as the building permit remains in force.
3. Persons whose recreational vehicles are located in an approved recreational vehicle park may reside in such recreational vehicle, subject to the provisions of subsection C of this section, for a period not to exceed 180 days.
C. When the use of a parked recreational vehicle is otherwise lawful subject to the requirements of this subsection, such recreational vehicle shall be supplied with a water and septic or sewer connection, and shall not be occupied by a greater number of persons than the number of beds such recreational vehicle can reasonably accommodate. (Ord. 926 § 1, 2003).