Pittsburgh City Council Says No To Porch Couches

Pittsburgh City Council has approved legislation that bans couches, mattresses, box springs, sofas, and upholstered chairs from non-enclosed porches. The bill was authored by Councilman Bruce Kraus and received the full support of council. Members of council were motivated to pass the legislation because of the burning of couches that occurs in Oakland after street festivals and sports victories. Councilman Bill Peduto says he doesn't expect building inspectors to go looking for outdoor couches but expects them to respond to complaints. The penalty for keeping a couch on a non-enclosed porch will be $200-$500 a day plus court costs. The law now goes to the Mayors office, where he has two weeks to veto it.