Title
Pilot Program for Temporary Use of Vehicles for Habitation Discussion
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Discuss pilot program for the temporary use of vehicles for habitation.
Report
Issue:
Whether to discuss pilot program for the temporary use of vehicles for habitation.
Staff Contact:
Tim Smith, Community Development Director, 360.570.3915
Presenter(s):
Tim Smith, Community Development Director
Background and Analysis:
The City Council has expressed interest in providing additional opportunities for recreational and other vehicles to be used as temporary shelter during the ongoing housing emergency.
In 2024, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 7410, which allows vehicle camping within City street rights-of-way, subject to regulations intended to minimize impacts on surrounding properties and neighborhoods. These regulations include requirements that vehicles move every 24 hours and maintain a minimum separation of 500 feet from other camping vehicles.
In response to continued community need, City staff have developed a pilot program (outline attached) to allow recreational and other vehicles to be used for temporary shelter on private property with a City-issued permit. Participation would require the property owner's permission.
The pilot program would allow one vehicle on a developed residential lot or up to two vehicles on a developed lot with faith-based use, such as a church. Properties subject to active Home Owner Association (HOA) covenants prohibiting vehicle habitation would not be eligible. Permits would establish conditions and siting standards to ensure vehicle habitation is compatible with surrounding properties. Permits would not exceed six months but may be renewed upon finding that permit conditions are satisfied.
The pilot program seeks to balance community needs with those of people relying on vehicles for temporary shelter. The program will be periodically evaluated to determine whether it should continue, end, or be permanently codified in the Olympia Municipal Code.
The pilot program is authorized under Ordinance No. 7443, which declares a public health emergency related to houselessness and authorizes the City Manager to take reasonable and necessary actions to address the emergency
Climate Analysis:
This pilot program has no impact on increased carbon emissions.
Equity Analysis:
The pilot program will provide an additional temporary housing option for people experiencing houselessness. Allowing vehicles to be located off the street provides a safer environment while giving the City’s Homeless Response team more time to connect occupants with services.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Neighborhoods may have concerns about program impacts. Permit conditions will address issues such as outdoor storage, debris, RV waste, and noise.
Financial Impact:
The pilot program could reduce impacts on City services by providing an alternative to right-of-way parking. Homeless Response staff would continue connecting occupants with services, while Police and Parking Services involvement would generally be unnecessary. Code Enforcement would intervene only if permit conditions are violated and the vehicle is not removed.
Options:
1. Discuss pilot program for the temporary use of vehicles for habitation.
2. Do not discuss the pilot program.
3. Provide other directions to staff.
Attachments:
Pilot Program Outline