My name is David Beaulieu, and I am a lifelong Springfield, Massachusetts resident and property owner.

In December, I received a zoning warning regarding a travel trailer on my property. The camper has been in the same exact location for over thirteen (13) years. It is registered and insured, well maintained, not used as a dwelling, and not connected to utilities. It has never created a safety issue, nuisance, or neighborhood problem, and it is not visible from the street unless you are directly in front of the house.

What makes this situation more concerning is that the City previously reviewed this same placement and told me it was acceptable. Relying on that guidance, nothing about the trailer’s location, condition, or use changed.

At the same time I received my warning, I became aware that other nearby property owners within the same 16-acre area also received similar warnings on the same day, despite no changes in property use and no ongoing issues. This suggests a broad enforcement sweep rather than a response to any specific problem.

The ordinance being enforced limits RVs to 20 feet in length, regardless of condition, use, visibility, or impact. This rule does not reflect modern recreational vehicle design and treats responsible, well-maintained RVs the same as abandoned or unsafe vehicles. For many residents, this ordinance is outdated and disconnected from how RVs are actually used and maintained today.

I respect zoning laws and understand their purpose. However, enforcement should be fair, consistent, and based on real impact, especially when:

a vehicle has been in place for many years,
the City previously approved the placement,
no complaints or safety concerns exist, and
the property owner has acted in good faith.

This situation is not just about one camper. It highlights a broader issue affecting responsible, tax-paying residents who maintain their property and vehicles properly but are now facing enforcement under an ordinance that no longer reflects current realities.

I am asking for support to encourage common-sense enforcement, clearer communication, and an update to an outdated ordinance, so that responsible residents are treated fairly and consistently.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for standing up for fairness.

Sign this petition if you believe that RV owners should have the right to store their vehicles safely and legally on their own property.