Rebuilding After the Old Trails Fire: Spokane County Temporary RV Permits
The devastation of the Old Trails Fire has left a profound mark on our Eastern Washington community. If you are one of the many families who lost their home, please know that our hearts are entirely with you. The grief of losing a home is overwhelming, but we want to offer you a beacon of hope and a clear, guided path forward. You do not have to navigate this dark time alone.
As you look toward the future, the dream of returning to your own land is likely top of mind. For many homeowners, the healing process truly begins when they can step back onto their property, breathe the fresh air of their own acreage, and watch their new home rise from the ashes. Living on your land in a recreational vehicle (RV) during the rebuild is a wonderful way to stay connected to your roots.
In this guide, we will walk you through how to stay safe, find temporary shelter, and navigate Spokane County's temporary RV placement permits so you can comfortably live on your property while Raven Buildings LLC helps you build your beautiful new home.
Finding Shelter and Staying Safe After the Spokane Wildfires
Before planning your long-term rebuild, your immediate safety and shelter are the highest priorities. The Spokane Wildfires have displaced many, but our region is incredibly resilient and resourceful.
If you are still in need of immediate assistance, local community centers, the American Red Cross, and Spokane County emergency services are actively providing safe havens, food, and medical care. Please ensure your family is secure and that you have registered for disaster relief assistance. Once your immediate safety is secured, you can begin to think about your transitional housing—which, for many, means moving an RV onto their property.
Why Live on Your Property During a Rebuild?
Choosing where to live while your home is being constructed is a major decision. While some families opt for short-term apartment rentals or extended hotel stays, bringing an RV onto your land offers unique, comforting benefits:
- Emotional Connection: Being on your land helps you maintain a sense of normalcy and connection to the place you love.
- Daily Oversight: You can watch the daily progress of your home build, making it easier to communicate with your construction team.
- Keeping Your Pets: Finding rentals that accept large dogs or farm animals can be nearly impossible. An RV allows your furry family members to stay home.
- Financial Efficiency: Many homeowner insurance policies include "Loss of Use" or "Additional Living Expenses" (ALE) coverage that can pay for the rental and setup of an RV, saving you from out-of-pocket hotel costs.
Comparing Your Temporary Housing Options
- Hotels: Good for the first few weeks, but quickly become cramped, expensive, and lack full kitchens.
- Apartment Rentals: Offer more space, but require signing a lease (often 6-12 months) and pull you away from your neighborhood.
- On-Site RV: Keeps you on your land with your pets and your community, though it requires careful planning for Eastern Washington's weather.
Navigating Spokane County's Temporary RV Placement Permits
To legally live in an RV on your property while rebuilding, you must obtain the proper permissions. Spokane County and the City of Spokane Valley have specific guidelines to ensure your temporary housing is safe and sanitary.
The Temporary Use Permit Explained
Under normal circumstances, local zoning codes strictly limit how long someone can camp or live in an RV on private property (often capped at 30 days). However, when you are actively rebuilding a home, the county offers exceptions.
To live in your RV long-term during construction, you will need to apply for a Temporary Use Permit. Here is how the process generally works:
- Verify Your Jurisdiction: Check the Spokane County SCOUT map to confirm if your property falls under unincorporated Spokane County, Spokane Valley, or another local jurisdiction.
- Submit Your Application: Spokane County accepts online permit applications through their public portal. You will need to provide a site plan showing where the RV will be parked.
- Link to Your Building Permit: Temporary RV permits are typically granted in conjunction with an active building permit. This proves to the county that the RV is a temporary measure while a permanent residence is being constructed.
- Maintain Progress: The permit is usually valid as long as active, permitted construction is moving forward on the property.
Utility Planning for Eastern Washington Weather
Living in an RV in Eastern Washington means preparing for our distinct seasons—from the blistering heat of August to the freezing, snow-heavy days of January. The county will require you to have safe, sanitary utility connections:
- Power: You will need a temporary power pole installed by a licensed electrician, or a safe, code-compliant generator setup.
- Water: If your well survived the Old Trails Fire, you can connect your RV to it using heated hoses to prevent winter freezing.
- Septic/Sewer: You cannot legally discharge RV wastewater onto the ground. You must either connect to an existing, inspected septic system or schedule regular pumping services from a local waste management company.
Consultant Claire's Tip: Always invest in high-quality RV skirting and heat tape for your pipes. Eastern Washington winters are unforgiving, and proper insulation will keep your temporary home warm and functional while we work on your permanent one.
Selling the Dream: How Raven Buildings LLC Can Help You Rebuild
We know that right now, the thought of starting over might feel exhausting. But this is also an opportunity to build a home that is perfectly tailored to your family's future—a home that is stronger, more energy-efficient, and designed exactly the way you want it.
At Raven Buildings LLC, we specialize in turning devastation into beautiful new beginnings. We are a fully licensed construction contractor right here in Eastern Washington, and we understand the unique challenges of rebuilding after a wildfire.
When you choose us for your home build, we handle the heavy lifting. From navigating the complex Spokane County building codes and securing your permits, to pouring the foundation and framing your dream home, we are by your side. We build with fire-resistant materials, modern layouts, and a deep commitment to quality craftsmanship. You can rest easy in your RV knowing that just outside your window, a dedicated, caring team is bringing your dream home to life.
Moving Forward with Hope
The Old Trails Fire took a great deal from our community, but it did not take our spirit. Rebuilding is a journey, and securing a temporary RV permit is your first empowering step toward reclaiming your land and your life.
If you are ready to talk about your vision for the future, we are here to listen, guide, and build. Let us help you create a safe, beautiful home where new memories can take root.
Ready to start your rebuilding journey? Call Raven Buildings LLC today at (509) 350-2016 or contact us online to request a quote. We are honored to help you rebuild.