The Salem City Council has tightened up its nuisance and building code ordinances. Under changes in the nuisance ordinance, recreational vehicles and boats will no longer be allowed to park long term on city streets.
There was discussion that the ordinance was too vague, but the council eventually agreed to pass the ordinance with the understanding it gave flexibility to the city staff in what needed to be enforced.
The building code changes require demolition permits for buildings on concrete foundations. Councilman Frank Addison said:
“The reason we’re wanting to get more clarity on the ordinance on the demolition permit is not necessarily to police everybody that’s demoing stuff, but to get it cleaned up after they knock it down, because we have instances where people are demoing structures and then leaving a pile of litter in their yard.”
The building code ordinance also increases some fees for permits.
