53' Storage trailers on property

[crblacklab]

Ihave a question and issue that I was hoping someone could help me with.  My neighbor recently brought in 2 53' tractor trailers that have no tags or registration and has parked them in clear view of my home.  What are the codes and laws pertaining to storage trailers on someone's private property.  Since they are commercial vehicles and we are zoned agricultural, do I have a leg to stand on to fight to get the trailers removed?

[Sal]

Welcome, crblacklab

Your concern is understandable I would not want a trailer next to my home. But, I think under the Township zoning ordinances trailers are permitted in Agriculture zones.

However, you may have some relief, I think that the trailers have to be used in a normal course of business and not just permanently parked there.

Check with the Township Office and Scott Haan, Code Enforcement Officer.

[crblacklab]

Thanks for the feedback Sal. I spoke with Scott briefly and I will be following up with him.  The trailers are not even registered or insured, so there is no doubt they are not being used.  Thanks again

[crblacklab]

Sal,
    Happy New Year!  I was hoping you might be able to help me get further information regarding the 53" storage trailers I wrote about back in July.  I spoke with Scot twice and he says he has no new information.  You mentioned that the trailers would have to be used as part of the evry day business, but there is no business going on over there that requires these trailers and they ahve not moved since.  Doens't the township have an ordinance that states any vehicle must have a current rgistration and tag to not be considered junk?  It has been months and the township has not done anything to resolve this unsightly issue.

   I have also heard thru the grapevine that the garage has been rented out to a gentlemen from Glenburn and he will be using the building for rebuilding engines and other mechanical work, if this turns out to be true, how did a commerical business get started up without township approval, or local homeowners being informed of the intent of the building?  I do not see any activity other than a strange pickup truck there once in awhile, however how can I obtain more information on what the intentions of that building are?

    And fianlly, is there a place where I can go  educate myself more on the laws and regulations of the township zoning and ordinances so I have a better understanding of wht is exceptable and not? I would like to beome more involved in this great community.  Let me know.  Thanks Sal and have a happy and prosperous 2009!

[Sal]

Hi crblacklab

I was just trying to give you an example.  I don’t think that trailers can normally be used for storage.  But the circumstances would have to be looked at and there are other factors such as, what is the land zoned, what are the trailers used for, where are they located, is it a business or residence and more.  There was not enough information to speculate weather it was permitted or not.  That is why I thought best that you contact the Township.

I think you are entitled to a better answer from a township official.  Is it permitted for the trailer to be there and if so, they should explain why it is.  If not you should be told why it is not permitted and what is being done about it.  So, demand answers it’s been six months.

I believe there is an ordinance regarding junk and unregistered vehicles.

You can get a copy of the Zoning Ordinances at the Township building.  However, that does not include all of the ordinances.  Over the years, various supervisors made up ordinances as they went along and I don’t know where they put them.

When it is time to harass someone, they dust them off and hit him over the head with them.  A funny thing about ordinances is, they don’t apply to everyone.

Do let us know how you make out.  :wink:

[crblacklab]

Sal,
    Thanks for getting back to me.  I'm happy to say Scott has taken the bull by the horns and was able to lock in a deadline of Jan 30th that the trailers be removed (late is better than never).  So I'm pleased with that.  Now the battle has begun over the garage.  They are trying to rent out for a racing engine rebuild shop.  I went to the township meeting and I also received a copy of the zoning book.  I feel confident we will put a stop to it before it begins.  Too bad people think they can do what they please with their property regardless of the laws, and then good people have to put up a fight to make things right and ensure they follow the laws.  If for some act of god the zoning board grants them access, I will be in touch with you for some info.  Thanks agin Sal for your help and guidance, it's nice to have some support!

[Sal]

I am glad to hear that everything worked out for you.  Keep in mind that sometimes these things take longer to resolve than anticipated but since the Township is working on it, it’s just a matter of time.

I would not be too concerned about the zoning board if the proposed use is something that is not permitted.  The zoning board cannot do whatever they please and I don’t mean that in a derogatory way.  The board has to comply with the township ordinances and I’m sure they will.

The only information that I have about this matter is what is written on this page.  Nevertheless, what I get from this is that you are dealing with someone that does not have a clue as to what they are doing.  So don’t get yourself worked up over it, the township will take care of that.

Happy New Year.