City of Sheridan reviews RV park regulations and compliance challenges

The Sheridan City Council convened on April 28, 2025, for a study session focused on various municipal issues, including the aging fleet of city work trucks and regulations surrounding recreational vehicle (RV) parks.

The meeting began with a discussion on the condition of the city’s work truck fleet, with a council member inquiring about the age of the vehicles. The city staff acknowledged that many trucks are over 25 years old, attributing their longevity to consistent maintenance and service.

Following this, the council turned its attention to RV park regulations, presented by City Engineer Thomas Arnaud. He provided an overview of Chapter 25 of the municipal code, which outlines the requirements for RV parks within city limits. Key points included the prohibition of tents and other non-recreational vehicles, the necessity for RV parks to have a park supervisor, and the requirement for proper sanitation and spacing between vehicles. Arnaud emphasized that RVs must be readily removable and cannot be used as permanent residences outside of licensed parks.

The discussion highlighted a growing trend of RV parks being used as long-term housing solutions, raising concerns about clutter and compliance with city codes. Council members expressed the need for stricter enforcement of regulations to maintain the aesthetic and safety of these parks, particularly in gateway areas of the city. Suggestions included implementing time limits on stays and increasing the frequency of compliance checks by city officials.

The council also discussed the importance of landscaping and green space in RV parks, especially those located in entryway corridors. Arnaud confirmed that existing regulations require such features, but enforcement has been inconsistent.

As the meeting progressed, the council considered the implications of RV parks on the local housing market, with some members suggesting that the city should facilitate the development of more affordable housing options to reduce reliance on RV parks as permanent residences.

The session concluded with a bid award for the 2025 pavement maintenance project, amounting to over $2.3 million, signaling ongoing infrastructure improvements in Sheridan.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city’s commitment to maintaining standards in RV parks while addressing the broader housing challenges faced by the community. The council plans to continue discussions on these topics in future meetings, aiming for a balanced approach to regulation and development.