Granite Falls council adopts ordinance tightening parking rules, removing RV storage provision

The Granite Falls City Council on Dec. 3 unanimously adopted Ordinance No. 1069-2025, a package of amendments to city code governing vehicles, development standards and impact fees.

Planning Director Amy Hess opened the public hearing with an overview of proposed changes to Titles 10 (Vehicles and Traffic), 19 (Unified Development Code) and 21 (Impact Fees), including a satellite parking option for residential developments, allowances for home occupations in existing, legal nonconforming residences in the Central Business District and residential zones, and two options under consideration for tractor‑trailer parking. After public testimony and council discussion the council removed the proposed Section 19.06.135 regarding storage of recreational vehicles from the package.

Mayor Matthew Hartman moved the ordinance for adoption and the council voted unanimously to approve it, with the final ordinance limiting satellite parking to the MR zone and explicitly prohibiting tractor‑trailer parking in front of residences. The motion followed staff recommendations and the Planning Commission’s advice.

Council members said the changes aim to balance flexibility for small-scale local businesses and residential parking needs while protecting neighborhood character. The ordinance also updates related impact-fee language; the council did not specify amendments to fee schedules at the meeting.

The ordinance will take effect per the dates set in the adopted ordinance documents and staff will proceed with administrative implementation and enforcement planning. The Planning Department will provide subsequent guidance to applicants and enforcement staff about the new satellite-parking allowances and tractor-trailer parking prohibition.