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Fairhope council reviews rules for Flying Creek Nature Preserve, agrees to allow limited group camping with conditions
Summary
Councilors discussed park rules for the upcoming Flying Creek Nature Preserve opening, including leash rules, hours and a provision to allow organized groups such as scouts to camp in exchange for service hours, subject to council approval.
Fairhope — City officials reviewed proposed rules and regulations for the new Flying Creek Nature Preserve at a council work session and discussed a limited exception to a no-camping ordinance for organized groups.
Justin, a parks staff member, presented the proposed additions to the parks and recreation ordinance that will apply specifically to Flying Creek Nature Preserve. Proposed rules include designated areas for bicycle use, a requirement that dogs be kept on a short leash, a ban on glass containers and alcoholic beverages, a no-smoking rule, a prohibition on paint pens and markers, and a dusk-to-dawn closure. The draft also includes a liability disclaimer: the city "accepts no liability for loss or damage of any person or dog while visiting the park." The rules would be added to the existing parks and recreation section of the municipal code.
Justin explained the city already maintains a general prohibition on camping in parks but has, in the past, allowed organized groups such as Boy Scouts to camp if they provide service hours to the park. He proposed replacing the current rule with a clause that gives the council the authority to approve camping in designated areas if the group provides service hours in return. Councilors expressed general support for the approach, saying it aligned with the project's educational goals and noting approval should be contingent on a formal group request and on compliance with conditions.
Council members emphasized that any camping approvals should be handled on a case-by-case basis and that repeated misuse could lead to revocation of future permissions. One councilor asked whether the ordinance would be advertised and how the adoption timeline would work; staff said the addition could be introduced at the next meeting and adoption would follow the city's ordinary notice procedures. Justin announced the preserve's grand opening is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 23 from 10 a.m. to noon, with an approximately 10:30 a.m. dedication and community activities.
No formal ordinance was adopted at the work session; staff said the draft will be finalized and presented for formal introduction and subsequent consideration.
