Torrey town officials are weighing a policy change that could allow residents to live in recreational vehicles, a move aimed at addressing seasonal housing needs and resolving ongoing code enforcement disputes. The discussion follows a July 30, 2026, meeting where the Planning and Zoning Commission addressed unpermitted RV sites and the potential use of shipping containers as residences.
Debating Seasonal RV Living
During a work meeting held on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026, the Torrey Town Council discussed the complexities of permitting people to reside in RVs. Mayor Mickey Wright noted that the town currently does not allow residents to live in RVs during the summer months, a restriction that differs from the town of Loa, which permits RV occupation from April 1 through Oct. 31 to provide seasonal employment housing for restaurants.
Council member Bill Barrett noted that the issue has become an emotional one with significant feelings on both sides of the debate. To better understand the potential impact, Planning and Zoning Commission member Jack Kelly agreed to meet with officials in Bicknell and Lyman to study how those towns manage RV living. Currently, Wayne County limits RVs to one per parcel.
Unpermitted Main Street RVs
The debate over RV residency follows a July 30, 2026, meeting of the Torrey Planning and Zoning Commission, where officials reviewed a specific parcel at 306 West Main Street owned by Aram Kyababchyan. The commission observed that two RVs were parked on the property and appeared to be operating without the required permits.
In response, the commission voted unanimously to send a letter to the owner outlining the need for building permits covering septic, water, and general construction. The commission recommended that the owner be given time to present existing permits or file for new ones, while also requiring a cessation of all use of the RV sites until they receive official approval.
During that July meeting, the commission also discussed whether shipping containers could be used as residences. Chair Bill Barrett noted that for a building to be considered residential, it must have a floor, walls, and a roof, as well as a bathroom, kitchen, and sleeping and seating areas.
Formalizing Code Enforcement
As the council considers housing regulations, officials are also working to formalize the town's code enforcement process. Mayor Wright stated that while most small towns with code enforcement utilize an informal process, Torrey must establish an administrative framework. This would involve amending Title 12 to create a process where code violations are heard by a hearing officer who can issue judgments and fees.
Under the proposed administrative process, an enforcement officer would conduct investigations, provide documentation, and issue citations. This would be an administrative rather than a criminal process, and the council would no longer hold the direct enforcement role. If a violation occurs at a rental property, the owner must be notified.
To assist with enforcement, Mayor Wright plans to create an interlocal agreement that would allow the county sheriff to assist the code enforcement officer if necessary. The council also discussed the potential for placing liens on properties in cases of noncompliance.
Administrative Priorities
The council's recent discussions highlighted the tension between maintaining strict building codes and addressing the community's changing needs. While the Planning and Zoning Commission addressed specific violations in July, the Town Council's Aug. 25 meeting focused on the broader legislative and administrative steps required to manage the town's growth and housing alternatives.
In addition to housing and enforcement, the council discussed the Wayne County Master Recreation Plan grant application, noting that a letter of support had been sent. Council member Jordan Pace also recommended implementing stricter time limits for agenda items to prevent meetings from going off topic due to their length.
Planning Commission Updates
The Planning and Zoning Commission's July 30, 2026, meeting also addressed several other municipal matters. The commission approved the Shreve solar permit and a permit for a porch for the Wright residence. Additionally, the commission approved sketches for proposed murals presented by representatives from the Entrada Institute, determining the images would not be classified as signs.
The commission also reviewed amendments to the Annexation Policy Plan and Titles 9 and 10, which were slated for public hearing in August. Furthermore, members approved new language for the building permit time limit extension, which will now require an explanation of extenuating circumstances to be granted.
