Routt County commissioners table decision on Buckethead Ranch special‑use permit to Sept. 16

Owners Maria and Jose Smith sought a special‑use permit for Buckethead Ranch, a 14,000‑acre property near County Road 53 in the Hayden area, proposing limited guest ranch operations and recreational events with a cap on overnight accommodations and annual events. Planning staff described the project (PL20240095) as a mix of guest‑ranch stays (up to six rental units at any time and up to 20 overnight guests) and up to 10 special events per year (small events up to 200 attendees and medium events up to 500). Staff recommended approval with conditions, including a phased approach to the county’s employee‑housing requirement and standard event controls.