HOMEOWNERS in a major US city have been hit with huge fines following a new crackdown on large vehicles parked in their yards.
Residents in Sacramento, California — specifically in the Tahoe Park and College Glen neighborhoods — have experienced an increase in penalties, with some fines reaching as high as $1,500.
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This enforcement has sparked frustration among locals, many of whom have been parking their RVs, trailers, and boats in their driveways and front yards for years without issue
Those living in the College Glen neighborhood, situated close to the Sacramento State Campus, have also seen fines pile.
Speaking to KXTV-TV Sacramento, one resident, Cathy Hicks, was hit with a citation in January for parking her RV in her front yard.
She also said that at least 10 other homes in her neighborhood were fined as well — including one who has kept a boat in his yard for 20 years
Hicks said: “We are trying to make memories.
“So, we can help with the grandkids, so we can take them out, and now this is an added expense.”
City codes, specifically section 15.140.020, prohibits RVs, trailers and boats being parked in front yards.
It states: “No trailer coach shall be parked within the setback area of a dwelling.”
It also adds: “No trailer coach shall be parked on residential property within five feet of the adjoining real property line.”
But some locals believe these rules are overly restrictive, with another resident, Leni Lopez-Nguyen, arguing that the rules do not consider the unique characteristics of middle-class neighborhoods.
She said: “There are neighborhoods with 25-foot setbacks, but when you are in a middle-class neighborhood like this, we do not have that luxury.”
For instance, she was fined for a small crack on the sidewalk in front of her house – something she believes is insignificant.
“Most of our neighbors on Cliffwood, they keep their yards manicured, they take care of everything,” she said.
“This is not something that is inhabiting people from living their lives.”
Ethan Valburg, a resident of Tahoe Park, has said the fines in the area have been escalating.
He started receiving multiple citations in 2022 and continued to receive them until early 2024, but now the steep rise has forced him to act.
He said: “Ultimately, it was not a big deal, and it was $350 each time, and that is worth it because my parents are able to come and spend time with our kids.
“Then they ramped it up to $1,500 every two months, and at that point, we had to move the trailer.”
Another neighbor added: “If it is in their yard, I do not think they should be fined. If it is on the street, yes, because they do tear up the street.”
In a response, councilmember Eric Guerra said he is working to address the growing concerns over the citations.
Guerra even proposed a temporary suspension on the fines while the city and residents work together to find a solution.
In a statement, he said: “I want to encourage the opportunity for the community and code enforcement to work together.
“With this council proposal, we are looking for a pause in ticketing and citations while finding the right balance for residents and their property.”
Tips for traveling in an RV
Whether in a big or small rig, there are a few things every traveler should know before hitting the road
Having a home on wheels is a great way to save money and travel safely, but there are a few things that should be addressed before traveling long distances and parking for extended periods.
- Consider the location. Different regions and climates present different challenges, like warm days but cold nights, persistent rain and humidity, or extremely dry air. Knowing what you’re driving into can help make the stay more comfortable.
- Factor in costs and prepare. How much are RV campsites? Average fuel costs? Are there laundromats nearby that accept credit or debit cards? Are there hardware stores close by in case something breaks? How about RV insurance?
- Be flexible. As always when traveling, it’s important to plan, but travelers must stay flexible when things go unexpectedly.
- Pack lightly. Even though an RV is a home on wheels, a small space will quickly teach travelers how to organize items by what’s necessary and what’s convenient.
- Consider the weather. Pack according to the weather, and take note that insulation in an RV isn’t as effective as insulation in a house. Always bring extra items to keep warm or cool.
Source: Progressive Auto Insurance
