Commission approves seasonal auto-campground in Woodland Ranch area with conditions

Coconino County’s Planning and Zoning Commission approved CUP 25-31 on Aug. 27 to allow a seasonal, temporary dome-tent campground on a 20.03-acre parcel in the Woodland Ranch area near State Route 64. The use was approved with conditions intended to address public-safety and infrastructure concerns.

Proposal details: The applicant proposed 20 temporary domes for up to 180 days per year (May 1 to Oct. 28), a single managed communal fire pit, temporary restroom trailer and generator power (with future hookups to APS or solar). The applicant asked that existing native vegetation count toward landscaping requirements; staff conditioned final landscaping and a weed-management plan at permit review.

Key issues raised: Commissioners and public questioned access and maintenance of Woodland Ranch Road and a local water crossing. Staff noted the road is a private easement with prior upgrades required by adjacent developments; the applicant provided documentation about the road and would participate in maintenance. The county required verification that the access meets the standards needed for emergency vehicles and required a fire plan approved by the local fire district before operation.

Vote and conditions: The commission voted unanimously to approve, with conditions including verification of road maintenance and emergency access, a Fire Chief-approved fire plan for the communal fire pit, dark-sky-compliant lighting, permit approvals for sanitary facilities, and a requirement that the operator maintain required maintenance and emergency contact procedures.

Follow-up: Staff will check that the access meets emergency standards and that final site details match the approved site plan before permits are issued.