Title
Amend Chapter 7, Article III of the Town Code to Align with New Temporary Street Closing Policy
PURPOSE: Request Town Council amend the Chapter 7, Article III of the Town Code to reflect the new Temporary Street Closing Policy
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Department
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
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Council Direction
COUNCIL DIRECTION:
_X_ Race/Equity __X_ Climate __X_ Comprehensive Plan ____Other
Council Direction Statement
The Temporary Street Closing Policy advances the objectives of the Carrboro Connects Comprehensive Plan by establishing a uniform regulatory framework for the administration of public events requiring street closures. Through standardized permitting procedures, the policy promotes equitable access to public space, ensures consistent application of insurance and safety requirements, and enhances coordination among Town departments.
The policy supports environmental and mobility goals by encouraging car-free events that reduce vehicular emissions and promote pedestrian and multimodal transportation. It further requires compliance with accessibility standards and traffic control protocols to safeguard public safety and ensure inclusive participation.
By formalizing public notification procedures and removing exemptions, the policy strengthens transparency and fosters trust in Town processes.
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Information
INFORMATION: The proposed amendments to Chapter 7, Article III of the Town Code (Attachment A) are intended to align existing ordinances with the newly adopted Temporary Street Closing Policy (Attachment B). These changes aim to standardize the public event permitting process, clarify administrative procedures, and ensure consistent enforcement of requirements related to insurance, fees, and street closures. The policy was developed collaboratively by the Fire Department, Police Department, Public Works Department, and the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Resources, and was formally approved by the Town Manager on November 10, 2025. At present, temporary street closing regulations are governed by Sections 7-16 through 7-26 of the Town Code; however, there is no standalone policy document. Previously, procedural guidance was limited to the “Steps to Accomplish” section on Page 5 within the Town of Carrboro Community Event Guide.
Notable amendments to Chapter 7, Article III of the Town Code include requiring all permit applications to follow the procedures outlined in the Temporary Street Closing Policy, which standardizes forms, insurance requirements, review protocols, and public notification. The ordinance also removes the list of exempt events to ensure uniform permitting standards and equitable treatment of all applicants.
Collectively, the amendment and Temporary Street Closing Policy are intended to advance the Town’s commitment to transparency, public safety, and equitable access to public spaces, while ensuring that all events are managed in a consistent and legally sound manner.
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Fiscal and Staff Impact
FISCAL IMPACT: There are minimal staff impacts associated with updating the Town Code.
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Recommendation
RECOMMENDATION: The Town Manager recommends that the Town Council approve the proposed ordinance amendment to Chapter 7, Article III of Town Code (Attachment C).
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