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County committee approves ordinance to regulate camping on county property, pending liability review
Summary
The committee approved an ordinance requiring permits for camping or temporary occupancy on county‑owned property, with limits (three days), penalties for violations, and a directive that final approval proceed pending a liability review.
Stephenson County committee members approved an ordinance establishing permit requirements and limits for camping and temporary occupancy on county‑owned property, with approval subject to a pending review of county liability.
A county staff member said the draft ordinance would prohibit camping on county property without a permit and that permits could be issued by the administration or zoning office. The draft limits temporary permits to no more than three days, contemplates vehicle parking rules (stopping or parking between midnight and 6 a.m. for more than two consecutive hours could constitute parking violations) and includes penalties: violations within a rolling 12‑month period could trigger fines (the draft referenced $100 and $200 tiers).
The presenter said the intended use is limited — examples included Cub Scout or Boy Scout groups who camp while using river access; staff suggested a QR‑code payment option for permit fees. Committee members discussed liability and whether state law trends could limit local restrictions; one member noted Illinois legislative proposals to allow camping on government‑owned land could complicate enforcement and cited past protest encampments elsewhere as a cautionary example.
After discussion, a motion to approve the camping and unauthorized‑occupancy ordinance pending liability review passed by voice vote. Staff were directed to complete or obtain the liability review prior to final adoption and to coordinate permit logistics and fee structures.
