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Farmers Branch City Council discussed a proposed ordinance that would regulate oversized vehicles in residential areas, addressing concerns about neighborhood appearance and street damage.
The proposal, presented by Code Enforcement Manager Christina Raemhild at the April 1 study session, would prohibit parking vehicles exceeding 9 feet in width or 23 feet in length in residential districts unless concealed from view.
"The objectives of this ordinance are to regulate oversized and commercial vehicles in residential zoned areas, improve the livability of the neighborhoods and reduce damage to the streets," Raemhild said during her presentation.
Councilmember Roger Neal, who requested the item, cited "many emails and comments from residents about their concern for the excessive number of boats, RVs, campers" parked in residential yards.
Several council members expressed support for the proposal but suggested strengthening it beyond size limitations.
"If we went forward with this proposal alone, we're leaving a lot out and we're not accomplishing enough," said Councilmember Richard Jackson, who recommended including specific vehicle types in the regulations.
Councilmember Neal advocated for adding a grace period of at least one year to allow residents time to relocate their vehicles or install proper screening.
If approved, the regulations would prohibit oversized vehicles from being stored in residential side or rear yards unless concealed by a permitted wall, fence, vegetation, or combination of both.
According to research presented at the meeting, neighboring cities have similar restrictions. Richardson prohibits vehicles exceeding 23 feet in length, 8 feet in width and 10 feet in height. Garland restricts vehicles exceeding 16 feet in length or 9,000 pounds gross weight.
The city previously regulated oversized vehicles from 1997 to 1998, but currently has no ordinance addressing oversized vehicle parking on private property in residential areas.
The council did not vote on the proposal but directed staff to refine the ordinance language to address specific vehicle types and consider implementation timelines before bringing it back for formal consideration.
