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2 Rivers operators seek special‑use permit for two campsites; health‑department involvement expected
Summary
Applicants asked for a special‑use permit to operate a primitive campground with two campsites on a 48.347‑acre A‑1 parcel. Planning staff said the health department requires campground permits only at three or more sites; commissioners asked about sanitation and applicant said they plan to live on site and follow health‑department guidance.
The planning commission considered a special‑use permit application from Gary and Jason Gaviria (listed in the record) to operate a primitive campground on a 48.347‑acre A‑1 parcel (Madison County tax map 40‑905). The application was identified as SUDash02Dash25Dash12Rivers and was heard as a first workshop.
Why it matters: The county’s zoning ordinance requires special‑use permits for campgrounds that are provided in exchange for compensation. The distinction between a private, non‑commercial “personal” campsite and a commercial campground affects whether an SUP is required and what health‑department approvals apply.
Discussion and key details: Planning staff Jonathan Nichols said the parcel currently contains a residence being used as a short‑term rental and two campsites that meet the zoning definition of a campground. Nichols noted the health department requires a formal campground permit when there are three or more campsites; with two sites the health department still reviews water and sewer disposal issues. The applicants said they use a porta‑toilet and intend to comply with any health‑department directions; a commissioner noted the health department typically requires a hand‑washing station adjacent to a porta‑john when it is used by the public.
Applicant Jason Gaviria said he and his family plan to live on site and operate the two sites for friends and paying guests as described. He told commissioners the platforms in use have been permitted by the building department. Commissioners asked whether the applicants intended to expand the number of sites; Mr. Nichols said county rules quantify sites (up to 20 sites per acre is allowed by formula), but the applicants said they do not intend to expand beyond the two existing sites.
Outcome and next steps: The commission left the matter to proceed toward public hearing; staff said the health department will be asked to comment formally and that its guidance about porta‑toilet and sanitation requirements would be provided to the commission before hearing. No vote was taken at workshop.
Ending: Commissioners noted the application appeared straightforward but requested formal health‑department comments for the public‑hearing packet.
