Stephens County approves temporary camper extensions; second-camper request postponed

The Stephens County Board of Commissioners granted temporary camper-permit relief for two properties and postponed a related request for a second camper on the same parcel while staff gathers more information.

For item 2, staff reported that the applicant at 1038 Old Carnes Creek Road seeks to buy a mobile home and requested a three-month extension of an expired camper permit, from Oct. 14 to Jan. 14, 2026. Staff said the marshal's office inspected the property, found it well maintained and confirmed the camper had proper utility hookups; the board approved the extension.

On item 3, commissioners considered a request from the owner of 325 Fielddale Road whose manufactured home burned; the owner asked for either a six- or 12-month extension while they demolish the remains and work toward a permanent structure. Staff said the marshal confirmed the camper remains on the property; after discussion the board approved a six-month extension for the property owner.

Item 4 asked permission for a second camper on the same 325 Fielddale Road parcel so a friend could come help with cleanup. Several commissioners expressed sympathy for the household's situation but also noted the county ordinance specifies one temporary camper per parcel and asked for clearer information about the plan. The board initially had a motion to deny that request but, after debate and noting the absence of the applicant to explain details, voted to postpone the request to the next meeting pending additional information.

Commissioners and staff repeatedly referenced the ordinance limit of one temporary camper per parcel. A member of the public later asked during comment whether the one-camper rule applies regardless of parcel size; staff and commissioners confirmed it does.