Lawrence Code of Ordinances ch. 15.12 § 15.12.240
Temporary housing
Operative Text
A. No tent, mobile dwelling unit or other structure used for human habitation which is located on a lot or tract of land for less than 30 consecutive days may be used except with the written permission of the board of health. B. All such temporary housing shall be subject to the requirements of these minimum standards, except as the board of health may provide in its written permission. (See section 15.12.320 .)
Lawrence Code of Ordinances ch. 15.12 § 15.12.240 governs the short-term use of tents, mobile dwelling units, and similar structures as human habitation when they are placed on a property for fewer than 30 consecutive days. Such temporary housing arrangements are not permitted without prior written authorization from the Lawrence Board of Health. Even when permission is granted, the structures generally remain subject to the city's minimum housing standards unless the Board of Health specifically waives or modifies those requirements in its written approval.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating under Lawrence Code of Ordinances ch. 15.12 § 15.12.240 who allow or facilitate any tent, mobile unit, or comparable temporary structure for human habitation on their property for under 30 consecutive days typically secure written permission from the Board of Health before occupancy begins. Compliant operators also ensure that the temporary housing meets the city's minimum housing standards, unless the Board of Health's written permission explicitly addresses any exceptions. Keeping documentation of the Board of Health's authorization on file is a common practice among operators seeking to demonstrate compliance.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under Lawrence Code of Ordinances ch. 15.12 § 15.12.240, individuals living in tents, mobile dwelling units, or similar temporary structures for fewer than 30 consecutive days have a right to know whether the arrangement has been authorized in writing by the Board of Health. Tenants in such situations are generally entitled to housing that meets the city's minimum standards, unless the Board of Health has formally modified those requirements in its written permission. Those who believe their temporary housing lacks proper authorization or falls below required standards may consider contacting the Lawrence Board of Health, a local tenant-rights organization, or reviewing the related provisions at section 15.12.320 for additional context.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated September 13, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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