Council Passes Ordinance Requiring Park Permits

RUTLAND - Mayor Tyler M. Eblin is reminding Village residents and visitors that special use of the Jim Vennari Park shelter house in the Village may require a permit.

The Rutland Village Council during its October regular meeting unanimously passed an ordinance amending the Rutland Municipal Code requiring permits for special usage of the James Vennari Park shelter house.

Any person, group of individuals, business or organization utilizing the Jim Vennari Park shelter house for a private purpose or yard sale must first obtain a permit from the Mayor's Office. According to the newly enacted Section 172.01(D) of the Rutland Municipal Code, "private purpose" means "any social gathering of invited guests exceeding ten in number assembling for a common private purpose and utilizing the Jim Vennari Park Shelter House for eating, drinking and or entertainment."

The permit fees are $50.00 for use of the shelter house for a private purpose or yard sale, with $25.00 refunded to the permittee if the shelter house and park area are returned free of litter, left belongings and damages.

In addition to obtaining permits, the Rutland Municipal Code prohibits yard sales at Jim Vennari Park except during the first weekend in the months of March, April, May, June, August, September and October. Also, the Code prohibits erecting political signs on park property except on days of a special or general election, after which the signs must be removed no later than 12 noon the day immediately following.

"We certainly welcome everyone to our Village park, including special events and yard sales," comments Mayor Eblin. "Unfortunately, too often, the park is not returned in a clean and orderly condition upon conclusion of the event. By requiring a permit with a refundable security deposit, we can better monitor those utilizing our park facilities for special events and ensure accountability."

The Ordinance went into effect November 4, 2020. Failure to obtain a required permit will result in an administrative fine in the amount of $25.00. Failure to pay the fine will result in a minor misdemeanor citation and order to appear in Mayor's Court. The provisions of the Rutland Municipal Code enacted by the Ordinance may be viewed by clicking here.

The Mayor hopes to erect signage in the weeks forthcoming to ensure proper advisory. According to the Mayor, the Police Department will be asked for a short period to issue warnings for violations allowing for the general public to become familiar with the new law.

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