Commissioners approve Feathered Elk Ridge recreational shooting and upland-hunting permit with overnight accommodations

Routt County commissioners on Tuesday approved a special use permit (PL20240096) for Feathered Elk Ridge, a 1,300-acre ranch south of Hayden proposing sporting clays, upland bird hunting, target ranges and limited overnight accommodations.

Applicants Robert and Thomas Miller told the board they intend a membership-based recreational model that keeps public access limited. The facility will offer sporting clays and upland hunts, permit visitors to use half of a 5,790-square-foot residence (three lower-level bedrooms) for short overnight stays, and operate a 1,200-square-foot kennel for dogs associated with the use. The applicants said they plan modest usage levels: “We don't anticipate we would have more than 1 or 2 people on the ranch on any given day,” and that members would call ahead to ensure site awareness.

Planning staff noted Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval (9–0) and that the facility’s location and existing structures make the site suitable for the proposed outdoor recreation. The staff report and the applicant’s packet included a state-registered Yost Reservoir on the property and water infrastructure discussion; Environmental Health recommended limiting overnight occupancy because of septic capacity and required a condition that all necessary state and local permits (including Colorado Parks and Wildlife, where applicable) be provided before final permit issuance.

Commissioners asked about water and waste systems; the applicant said potable water is trucked in for the lodge (two-thousand gallon cistern) and that other on-site buildings use existing cisterns and ditch-fed irrigation tied to historical water rights. Planning staff said CPW did not provide additional comment in time for the hearing but that standard conditions would require all applicable state permits to be filed prior to issuance of the county permit.

The board approved the special use permit with conditions listed in staff packet (general improvement and specific operating conditions, plus an added condition to provide documentation that surface water use is consistent with decree uses and that any well use would be consistent with commercial operations). Staff and the applicant confirmed the permit does not authorize weddings or large events, which would require separate special event permits or an amendment.

The Millers said they would prioritize gun safety training and local youth programs and that they plan to limit overnight guest counts (Environmental Health recommended a maximum of 10 people including owners, per septic capacity). Planning staff confirmed site inspections and referrals to Road & Bridge and the sheriff’s office if traffic or safety issues emerge.

The permit passed unanimously. Conditions require filing all necessary state and county approvals and compliance with the Routt County Unified Development Code.