The City Council has recently clarified and updated the Code and Ordinances of the City of Walters regarding manufactured homes, travel trailers, RV’s, and Motor homes. While the change was minimal, this is a good time to review some of the basic information that is found in the chapter regulating manufactured homes.
Manufactured homes are designed as dwelling units for humans and are allowed in areas designated and zoned as mixed residential. To bring in a new or previously owned manufactured home, certain requirements must be met. No dilapidated units will be allowed to be brought into the City of Walters. Building Permits are required and any new or previously owned units will require a Certificate of Occupancy to be issued before anyone may occupy the home. If a manufactured home becomes non-inhabitable for humans, it must be removed from the city and disposed of properly. Temporarily vacant manufactured homes may not be used for storage or any purpose other than as a residence. An existing manufactured home that is currently being used as storage, will be allowed to remain as such if maintained by the owner. This unit may not be replaced. If the unit becomes damaged or falls to ruin, it must be removed by the owner and disposed of properly.
Manufactured homes are required to be placed on adequate foundation and use an appropriate anchoring system. The home must meet the minimum setback and clearance requirements for the area the where the home is to be located. Fire-resistant skirting is required to conceal and protect the underside of the unit. The skirting shall be of a material compatible with the manufactured home or brick, stucco, cinder blocks or poured concrete. There shall be a hinged opening provided to access the underside of the structure. If city utilities are available, they must be used. Each dwelling must have their own meters. Accessory structures and additions may require separate building permits and may not impede inspection access or ventilation.
Campers, including travel trailers, RV’s, and other mobile housing are intended for camping or short-term occupancy, they are not built to be a permanent residence. Permanent residency will only be allowed if the unit meets all of the requirements for permanent manufactured homes. If zoning allows, campers may be stored in the owners back yard or side yard as long as they maintain the proper setbacks. These units must be kept registered and operable. Trailers, manufactured homes, mobile housing, RV’s, Campers, etc., shall not be salvaged, scrapped, junked out or allowed to accumulate in residential areas nor commercial areas unless zoned for such activities.
Campers may only park in front of the build-line of a residence for a maximum of 48 hours to facilitate loading and unloading, or cleaning in preparation for or return from a trip. No maintenance may be performed when the unit is parked in front of the build-line and traffic may not be impeded. Campers may not be connected to city utilities while being stored. Temporary utility connections can be made when parked in a designated RV park. Generators shall not be used as a power source for any dwelling or mobile unit in the city limits except in the case of a power failure.
Campers, travel trailers, RV’s, and motor homes found to be in disrepair, deteriorating due to age or weather damage, unregistered, or inoperable, shall be deemed a nuisance. The owner must correct the conditions or dispose of the unit properly.
This article only hits on the most frequently asked questions and is not inclusive of all of the regulations regarding manufactured homes. If you have any questions, feel free to contact City Hall for more information at 875-3337.