Junk Vehicle Discussion
I would like to provide some helpful facts and background information regarding the proposed JUNK Vehicle Discussion scheduled for October 17 at 6:30 pm. This discussion stems from the Board’s ongoing consideration of whether to define junk vehicles as a nuisance. WTMC has received complaints about the growing number of “junk” vehicles in our HOA. These vehicles are seen as unsightly and have a negative impact on the value of neighboring homes as well as our community as a whole.
Article II.6 of the Lakeridge CCRs says ”No noxious or offensive activity shall be carried upon any of the said property, nor shall anything be done thereon which may be or become an annoyance or nuisance to the neighborhood. The Ranchettes CCRs say “No noxious or offensive activities shall be carried on upon any tract, nor shall anything be done thereon which may become an annoyance or a nuisance to the neighborhood”. Our CCRs are old (recorded in 1974). They are also quite vague and don’t provide a clear definition as to what exactly constitutes noxious or offensive activity.
Given this lack of clarity, the CCRs assign the responsibility for determining what qualifies as noxious or offensive to the Architectural & Control Committee. This committee, in collaboration with the Violations committee has been diligently working to establish a reasonable definition of a junk vehicle/vessel and develop a policy on how to address them, if necessary.
For guidance, we looked to Pierce County Code Title 8.08. This code defines junk vehicles as those meeting THREE of the following criteria:
- Extensively damaged
- Apparently inoperable
- Three years old or older
- Fair market value equal to the scrap value
According to the county code, a vehicle is considered “Extensively Damaged” if it has visible damage to, or is missing, a minimum of three of the following parts or components: frame, axle, surface panels, doors, fender, window or windshield, headlight or front signal light, Taillight, brake light, or rear signal light, engine, transmission, wheels or tires, steering wheel, radiator, battery, any other major mechanical or electrical equipment.
“Apparently Inoperable” means any vehicle that does not appear to comply with requirements for vehicles used on public streets with regard to brakes, lights, tires, safety glass or other safety equipment.
It is important to emphasize that our intention is not to target vehicles simply because they are old or have minor damage. Our focus is solely on addressing vehicles that meet the criteria of being extensively damaged, apparently inoperable, and of low value.
If the proposed change is adopted and junk vehicles become a violation, we want to assure you there are procedures already in place in our Violations Policy for individuals to present their case to the Board. No fines will be issued without providing the opportunity to be heard. Our objective with this proposal is to enhance the overall appearance and attractiveness of our HOA rather than imposing fines on our valued members.
Join us October 17 and share your thoughts.
October 17th 6:30pm-8:00pm. It’s a virtual meeting.
Microsoft Teams meeting
