On July 1, 2010, the Washington State Legislature passed legislation that allows religious organizations to provide temporary housing on their properties for homeless persons in need of shelter and other services that are not being provided by state and local governments.
That legislation also provides guidance to cities and counties in regulating homeless encampments within the community, leaving broad discretion to protect the health and safety of its citizens.
City Code amendment
The Westport City Council began addressing the issue of establishing regulations for homeless encampments early this year. At the Monday, May 9, City Council meeting, members unanimously passed the second reading of the proposed amendment to the Westport Municipal Code that establishes requirements for issuance of a temporary use permit to an applicant wishing to host a homeless encampment.
Adhering to standards set by the state legislature, the City will allow religious organizations recognized by the IRS as exempt from Federal income taxes to set up and run temporary homeless encampments.
Regulations basics
The following list includes the basic requirements for permitting a temporary homeless encampment inside Westport City Limits:
• Camp must be on host-owned property
• Permitted for 90 days or less at same site
• Host must serve as managing agency of camp
• Abutting property line distance requirements
• Six-foot tall fencing around camp required
• Maximum number of residents based on size of site
• No one under 18 allowed overnight without parent/guardian
• Law enforcement notified of ejected campers with warrants, matches on sex offender checks and/or a potential threat to community
• Host provided and enforced written code of conduct
• State, county and municipal health and safety regulations met
• Parking needs must be addressed
• Space must be returned to original condition when camp is dismantled
The ordinance also provides for appeals to City decisions regarding permitting and regulations enforcement.
Copes of the full ordinance are available at Westport City Hall.
