Negaunee Adopts New Traffic Code

The Negaunee City Council adopted a new traffic code at their November regular meeting. The code codifies all traffic related ordinances under one code and aims to be more user friendly by modernizing definitions and code deficiencies. New sections to the code include the restriction of parking for some trailers on city streets, affording new rights to property owners, provides for a permitted parking program, and licenses food trucks.

New parking restrictions for boats on any street, sixteen (16’) feet in length or longer, and/or being four (4’) feet in height or higher from parking on city streets will be in effect.

“Unfortunately, larger boats are becoming an issue in some neighborhoods, just like camper trailers they become obstacles, not only for motorists, but to our first responders, such as firefighters or other personnel”, City Manager Nate Heffron said.

The use of and storage of recreational campers/trailers has also changed. Property owners can now store their recreational camper/trailer on most properties within the city if the following conditions are met: (a) Such parking or storage does not occur in the front yard area of any premises; and (b) Such parking or storage as might occur in the side yard or rear yard of any premises shall maintain a five (5′) foot perimeter on all sides…, and must be wholly parked on a single parcel owned by the owner…

An additional highlight for residential property owners is the ability to stay in their recreational camper/trailer while it is parked or stored on their property (please refer to the traffic code for full details). Some restrictions apply, such as (1) The recreational camper/trailer may be used as a temporary dwelling between Memorial Day and Labor Day only each year in some zoning districts. (2) the unit may only be occupied by the owner or immediate family member of the owner. (3) All units are subject to inspection upon request to ensure the presence of an operational and fully charged fire extinguisher and a working smoke alarm.

The city will develop a pamphlet that will be distributed explaining the new changes concerning recreational campers/trailers. Until then, Residents are encouraged to read the full text of the ordinance before engaging in the use or storage of their recreational camper/trailer.

The new code also allows for the establishment of a permitted parking program and licensing for food trucks.

“The city will not release any additional information on either of these programs until they have been developed. We intend to have the permitted parking program up and running soon, Heffron said.

Please visit https://www.cityofnegaunee.com/ordinances to see a copy of this ordinance.

Questions concerning this release may be directed to the attention of the City Manager, Nate Heffron at (906) 475-7700 ext. 11.