The first few days of enforcing Powell’s new on-street parking ordinance for trailers/RVs were handled lightly, and now violators are set to be contacted. 

“At this point, they are complaint driven unless we see one that is in the way and then we will issue warnings,” said Powell Police Chief Roy Eckerdt on Monday, noting the department wanted to give residents time to get used to the new ordinance. “We start with warnings on the complaints until it takes hold of the community.”

The Powell City Council asked that the Powell Police Department begin contacting trailer owners who are in violation of the ordinance.

“Lots of people have moved (their trailers), so it would be fair,” said Councilman John Wetzel.

“I agree, if you see one, find out who it is and send a letter and make them aware,” Powell Mayor Don Hillman told Eckerdt.

Restrictions for on-street parking for RVs, campers and large trailers within Powell city limits went into effect Jan. 1 following several Powell City Council meetings and public discussions.

Pedestrian safety, particularly around school zones, was what sparked the original discussion for the ordinance, Wetzel said last summer.

Campers, RVs and trailers may only be parked along city streets for as long as the owner wants during the summer months, from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Outside of that time frame, there is a 48-hour time limit for on-street parking.

The ordinance also limits RV and camper parking in front of other people’s homes for extended periods of time.

That means until Memorial Day weekend, the only permissible on-street parking is for vehicles.

The penalty for ordinance violations is discretionary, deputy city attorney Scott Kath said as the ordinance was being formed last summer. If charged with the violation, a judge would decide how much to fine the offender.

As with many city ordinances, violation would be a misdemeanor with a maximum fine of $750.