Village of Valemount now allowing people to live in RVs for up to 4 years

People living in recreational vehicles in the central Interior mountain community of Valemount, B.C.,are now permitted to do so by village council.

A new policy now in effect opens the door for RVs and portable buildings to be used as residences for up to four years. The temporary housing structures must be parked or situated on residential lots within village limits and only one structure is allowed per lot.

MayorOwen Torgersontold CBCthe decision was made to help put roofs over people's heads during an ongoing housing crunch.

According to the 2016 census, the village is home to about 1,000 residents and rental homes were already hard to come by before an influx of Trans Mountain pipeline workers came to the areaalso looking for placesto stay.

"We had, if not zero, very close to it prior to these larger industrial projects taking place," said Torgerson, referring to village vacancy rates."Whether you are working in industry, or whether you are working in the tourism industry,you need a bed and a roof."

A staff report to councilsays the policywill also help to ensure the temporary structures meet the necessary standards to be able to connect to villagewater, sewage and electricity.

"We thought it would be an opportunity for us to move forward on the housing situation," added the mayor.

It will cost RV dwellers $650 for a temporary use permit that can be approved for up to one year. Applicants will need to apply again annually for up to four years maximum.

• Click hereto view the new policy.

Torgerson said the biggest challenge for council now is that some lots have more than one temporary structure on themand this violates the new policy.

"Worst case scenario, these folks will have to move on," said Torgerson.