Miramar adopts new rules targeting illegal RV housing in residential neighborhoods
Key Points(5)
- The Miramar City Commission has approved new regulations aimed at curbing the illegal use of recreational vehicles as rental housing in residential neighborhoods, responding to growing concerns about overcrowding, zoning violations, and public safety.
- The ordinance, sponsored by Commissioner Yvette Colbourne, amends the city's Code of Ordinances to establish stricter standards governing the storage and use of recreational vehicles on residential properties.
- City officials said the measure was prompted by an increase in complaints involving unauthorized occupancy and subletting of RVs parked on residential lots.
- The new rules create a registration system intended to improve oversight and enforcement.
- “This ordinance is about protecting our neighborhoods and ensuring residential properties are used as intended,” Colbourne said in a statement.
The Miramar City Commission has approved new regulations aimed at curbing the illegal use of recreational vehicles as rental housing in residential neighborhoods, responding to growing concerns about overcrowding, zoning violations, and public safety.
The ordinance, sponsored by Commissioner Yvette Colbourne, amends the city's Code of Ordinances to establish stricter standards governing the storage and use of recreational vehicles on residential properties.
City officials said the measure was prompted by an increase in complaints involving unauthorized occupancy and subletting of RVs parked on residential lots. The new rules create a registration system intended to improve oversight and enforcement.
“This ordinance is about protecting our neighborhoods and ensuring residential properties are used as intended,” Colbourne said in a statement. “As our city continues to grow, we must proactively address practices that contribute to overcrowding, unauthorized housing arrangements, and potential safety concerns.”
Under the ordinance, residential properties are limited to one recreational vehicle. Property owners who store RVs on residential lots must register the vehicle with the city and submit an affidavit affirming that it will not be used as living quarters, rental housing, or occupied by third parties for residential purposes.
The regulations also prohibit RVs from being used as permanent or temporary housing and require property owners to provide access for city inspections when requested to verify compliance.
Violations of the ordinance may result in enforcement actions, including fines.
According to city officials, reports of recreational vehicles being used as rental units and living accommodations have increased in recent years, raising concerns about neighborhood density, code compliance, and safety. Officials said the new regulations align Miramar's policies with those adopted by neighboring municipalities and other Broward County jurisdictions.
The city said the ordinance is intended to balance responsible property ownership with efforts to preserve neighborhood character and maintain community standards.
Residents seeking additional information may visit the city's website or contact the Miramar Police Department's Code Compliance Unit.
