Agricultural landowners may be allowed to open their own campgrounds in Red Deer County.
Council discussed opening the doors on Tuesday to permitting campgrounds in agriculturally zoned areas, not just recreational and commercial districts.
A number of small campgrounds already operate through the county on agricultural district lands, so they would now be considered illegal under the land-use bylaw.
“We have many campgrounds that have started up over time and maybe they have only a few campers,” said Mayor Jim Wood. “And they are illegal.”
Wood said the county is looking at amending the bylaw so that these sites can be legal. First reading was given on April 10.
Council approved a couple of amendments. One would allow people to store their campers year-round provided they are not actually living in them. This would affect “campground major” developments, which include more than 20 defined camping sites.
As well, a “campground minor” development will be considered temporary use and have a fixed expiry date specified in a development permit. They would have 20 sites or fewer.
The main question that council had on its mind was how big or small the agricultural land should be for these campgrounds.
Staff suggested a quarter section or 160 acres. Wood proposed 40 acres.
Council was divided.
“Maybe we do want campgrounds all over the place, wherever it suits someone’s fancy,” said Coun. Don Nesbitt.
“But I don’t think it’s a wise decision for the county. I think the one-quarter addresses that.”
Coun. Richard Lorenz thought differently.
He said a small campsite on four acres exists directly across from the hamlet of Markerville, where there is a creamery museum.
“It’s totally secluded and you have to drive right in to see it,” said Lorenz. “If you get a (small) campground like that, it’s a drawing card for the museum that serves ice cream.”
Council will discuss the issue again on June 5 and may then give third reading to the land-use bylaw amendment.
ltester@www.reddeeradvocate.com