'Junky' Parking Problems Clog City Council Discussion

SAN ANGELO, TX - The San Angelo City Council Tuesday delved into the parking portion of the Code of Ordinances, focusing on the regulation of parking vehicles, trailers or RVs in yards and in streets. 

The discussion, led by Neighborhood and Family Services Director Bob Salas, brought attention to key points and potential amendments.

The ordinance in question, Chapter 8, Article 8.10, currently prohibits parking in residential yards, with few exceptions. 

Salas highlighted two primary exceptions: parking on an improved surface like concrete, asphalt, caliche, or paving bricks, and parking in an area screened from public view by a solid opaque privacy fence or wall that is at least 6 feet tall and complies with zoning ordinances.

Additional exceptions encompass recreational trailers, semitrailers, and RVs, all subject to setback requirements. 

Setback regulations state that trailers must be 10 feet from the street edge, excluding the trailer neck. Other allowances include parking in the rear yard if it is not adjacent to a street row or if the street is 36 feet or less in width.

Salas provided insights into the code enforcement process, explaining that officers initially consult GIS maps for street width. 

After inspecting the property, officers issue a notice of violation, granting violators seven days to comply. Extensions may be considered upon request. 

Non-compliance may result in a criminal complaint, and it was emphasized that all vehicles on the street must have a license plate.

Regarding on-street parking, Salas emphasized a "first come, first serve" approach, with a prohibition on blocking driveways. However, where driveways are unimpeded, drivers are free to park on the street unless a "No Parking" sign is present.

During the presentation, Code Enforcement Supervisor Rudy Ibarra noted that his department receives minimal complaints about parking on unimproved surfaces, citing only three or four instances in the past year. Ibarra clarified that unattached trailers are not permitted on the streets.

“This is a problem all over the city,” said District 3 City Council member Harry Thomas. “This community is starting to look really junky in a lot of different areas. So, If we can change the ordinance and clean up some of these neighborhoods, I sure would like to do that.” 

The council decided to continue reviewing the ordinance. 

Citizens with concerns were encouraged to contact the Neighborhood & Family Services Department at 325-655-0824. 

“It really, truly is not just about aesthetics, it also goes to the value of properties as well,” City Manager Daniel Valenzuela said. “Whenever you have a trashed-out property next to yours, the value of your property can be affected as well.”

For more information, view the agenda packet.