In a recent decision by a city council committee, a proposal that sought to amend the parking regulations for recreational vehicles (RVs) in Calgary was rejected. The proposed change aimed to permit Calgarians to park their RVs, including motorhomes, campers, or tent trailers, in their front driveways throughout the summer season.
“I think this is basically going to be poking the bear with regard to the neighbor-on-neighbor conflict that we, as a council, seem to enjoy doing to our Calgary citizens,” Coun. Peter Demong, Ward 14 councilor, said, as quoted in a CBC Canada report.
Calgary in Alberta presents diverse camping adventures. The season, which typically extends from late May through early September, is a period when both residents and tourists can escape the hustle of city life and engage with the wilderness. Meanwhile, the surrounding mountains serve as a playground for rock climbing and hiking enthusiasts.
Opponents of the proposed change raised concerns about its potential impact on community aesthetics and the possibility of reduced street parking availability if driveways were occupied by RVs. Additionally, there were worries about obstructions to accessibility and visibility for drivers.
Meanwhile, supporters of the amendment argued that the existing bylaw generates a significant number of complaints regarding RV owners who exceed the 36-hour parking limit. They believed that relaxing the rules during the camping season would alleviate some of these issues. As of 2022, over 100,000 RVs are registered in the city.
“The challenge with rules like 36 hours is that: who’s clocking that? It’s hard to enforce. Most other cities … just allow it for the camping season, but don’t allow it for the winter months, and I think that’s the correct balance,” Ward 3 Coun. Jasmine Mian said, as quoted in a CBC Canada report.
As the peak of the camping season approaches, Calgary witnesses a vibrant community of campers, from families enjoying their summer vacations to solo adventurers seeking solitude in the wilderness.