New Zoning Rule Bans Off-Driveway Vehicle Parking in Northfield Center Township

Northfield Center Township trustees voted unanimously on April 13 to add a new section to the township’s zoning resolution prohibiting vehicles from being parked off driveways on residential properties. The new rule, Section 410.16 of the Off-Street Parking and Loading Regulations, bans off-driveway vehicle parking with limited exceptions including emergency vehicles during active emergencies, construction vehicles used for work at the property not exceeding 48 hours, and similar situations at the zoning inspector’s discretion. What the Rule Means for Residents The Zoning Commission presented the measure to trustees during a public hearing before the regular meeting. Residents had questions about how the rule would affect campers, travel trailers, and recreational vehicles. Township zoning officials explained that campers and travel trailers are classified as vehicles under the code. Any surface used to store an RV must be hard surface — either asphalt or concrete — connected to the existing driveway. Gravel additions are not permitted under current zoning code. One resident asked about placing a gravel pad off his existing asphalt driveway to park a camper. Officials explained a concrete pad alone would qualify, but any surface connecting it to the driveway must also be hard surface. Residents with existing gravel surfaces are grandfathered in, but cannot add new gravel to current hard-surface driveways. Enforcement Process A resident raised concerns about repeat violators — specifically, whether someone who moves a vehicle for a period and then returns it would start the notice process over. Officials clarified that the three-notice enforcement cycle does not reset simply because a vehicle was temporarily moved. The regulation empowers the zoning inspector to issue notices and pursue violations through the court system. Trustees noted the rule provides a legal foundation for addressing parking issues that previously had no code backing. Background Discussion during the public hearing touched on an ongoing situation on Old 8 Road where a resident has accumulated multiple vehicles, with neighbors suspecting the property is being used as an informal car dealership. Officials said law enforcement, state representatives, the county auditor’s office, and prosecutors have all been involved over the years without resolution. The new off-driveway rule was described as one additional enforcement tool, though officials acknowledged it will still require the standard notice and court process to use. The resolution passed 3-0.