A version of SEMA model legislation (S.B. 5121) has been reintroduced in the Washington State Senate to prohibit cities or towns from enforcing an ordinance, development regulation, zoning regulation, or administrative practice that prevents automobile collectors from pursuing their hobby. Junked, wrecked or inoperable vehicles stored on private property would only require screening from public view. Under the bill, six or fewer vehicles that are 30 years old or older, including one parts car, would be permitted for hobby vehicle restoration as long as restoration is an ancillary use of the property. The bill is pending consideration by the Washington Senate Governmental Operations Committee.
We Urge You to Contact All Members of the Senate Governmental Operations Committee (List Attached Below) Immediately to Request Their Support for S.B. 5121
- S.B. 5121 would permit the repair or modification of motor vehicles on private property that are undergoing restoration.
- S.B. 5121 would permit the maintenance of a parts car as a source of parts for motor vehicles undergoing restoration.
- S.B. 5121 permits the maintenance for restoration of vehicles 30 years old and older, which corresponds to the state's definition of "collector vehicles."
- S.B. 5121 establishes reasonable provisions that vehicles be located out of public view by means of suitable fencing, trees, shrubbery or other means.
- S.B. 5121 demonstrates a real effort by legislators and hobbyists to enact reasonable and fair compromise legislation.