Commissioners approve temporary zoning permit for haunted‑forest event with insurance and signage conditions

The McPherson County Board of Commissioners on Oct. 6 approved a temporary zoning permit for a privately organized haunted‑forest event to run on consecutive weekends and through Nov. 1, subject to conditions including proof of insurance and signage.

John Kinsey, planning and zoning/environment administrator, explained the site layout and logistics, describing a single driveway entrance, a central walking trail and an ADA‑compatible porta‑potty. He told the board event organizers intend to operate beginning Oct. 10 and to close each night at midnight. Kinsey noted he had not yet received the event insurance but said organizers would provide it before allowing attendees on the property.

Commissioners discussed traffic and signage on State Highway 56 and the possibility of notifying KDOT’s district office; Kinsey recommended the organizer contact KDOT if signage or highway access could create safety issues. Commissioners also noted the undersheriff had approved a sheriff’s deputy to be present for traffic control and public‑safety reasons.

Commissioner motion language approved the zoning permit with related insurance, signage and other conditions. "Mister chairman, I move the we approve the zoning permit application for the nesters to put up this... Haunted forest and all the related insurance coverages and signage, etcetera," a commissioner said; the motion passed by voice vote. Kinsey said organizers will supply proof of insurance to the county before the event.

County staff said they will monitor the event for compliance with hours, signage and safety conditions and will coordinate with KDOT and the sheriff’s office as needed.