Harpersfield Upgrades Ordinance Into Law For Mobile Home Parks and Campgrounds

HARPERSFIELD – A local law is being proposed that would update and replace the town's existing regulations, contained in Ordinance No. 1 of 1983 to regulate Mobile Home Parks and Camp Grounds in the town of Harpersfield. While the local law incorporates many provisions of the prior ordinance, new and updated definitions, substantive and procedural requirements are proposed to bring the town's legal requirements in accordance with certain standards adopted by the New York State Department of Health (DOH) and set forth in New York State Sanitary Code. 

Specifically, the proposed local law incorporates the current DOH regulations for the minimum size and spacing requirements for mobile home lots and camping spaces, requirements for fire safety, refuse disposal, and the provision of necessary utilities. The proposed local law also includes a cross-reference to the town of Harpersfield Site Plan Review Law and reiterates that a site plan review and approval by the town of Harpersfield Planning Board is required prior to the issuance of a Mobile Home Park and Campground Permit. 

The law also changes the permit issuing authority from the Town Clerk to the Town Board and includes a new mandatory referral to the Town Building Inspector/ Code Enforcement Officer and Town Planning Board. 

The proposed local law reflects a comprehensive update of the Town's existing regulations with the goal of ensuring the minimum standards are in place to safeguard public health, safety and welfare. The requirement to obtain a Mobile Home Park and Campground Permit remains. A copy of the proposed local law is available for review at the Harpersfield Town Clerk's Office. A copy of the proposed local law has also been posted to the town's website for the public's review. 

All persons desiring to speak either on behalf of, or in opposition to, the proposed local law shall be heard either by attending the public hearing or by submitting written comments in advance of the public hearing to the Town Clerk.    

The town is continuing its review of existing ordinances and laws, to determine if they need to be updated to current standards and laws.