Petoskey City Council is considering changes to its property registration requirements, aiming to clarify the process for homeowners seeking exemptions. During the recent meeting on July 21, 2025, council members discussed the need for a more defined timeline for submitting exemption requests to avoid confusion and ensure compliance.

Currently, property owners must submit a written request to the code enforcement officer if they wish to be exempt from registration due to temporary absences. However, concerns were raised about the lack of a specified timeframe for these submissions. Council member Moore suggested that a deadline be established, potentially mirroring the 14-day period previously discussed for other matters. This proposal aims to streamline the process and provide clearer guidance for homeowners.

The discussion also highlighted the implications for homeowners in areas like Bay Harbor, where many residents are absent for extended periods. Council members expressed concerns that requiring registration for homes unoccupied for six months could place an unnecessary burden on responsible homeowners who maintain their properties while away. The council is considering refining the criteria to focus on truly vacant or blighted properties, rather than those simply unoccupied due to seasonal absences.

Council member D'Amour emphasized the need to target the registration requirements more effectively, suggesting that the focus should be on properties that genuinely contribute to blight rather than penalizing homeowners who are temporarily away. The council is exploring options to limit the registration requirement to specific categories of properties, ensuring that long-term homeowners are not unduly affected.

As the council continues to refine these regulations, the goal remains to balance the need for property oversight with the realities of seasonal living in Petoskey. The next steps will involve drafting clearer guidelines that address the concerns raised, ensuring that the registration process is fair and practical for all residents.