Neighbors object, committee approves agritourism permit for Long Branch Saloon & Farms

The San Mateo County Agricultural Advisory Committee approved an agritourism permit for Long Branch Saloon & Farms on Nov. 10 after public testimony raised safety and neighborhood concerns.

Project planner Summer Burleson described the application as an agritourism event permit for up to 12 private farm/ranch events per year on a 43‑acre parcel in San Gregorio. Burleson said the site supports educational farm tours, flower and tree crops and horse breeding, and that the property can accommodate up to 300 vehicles though some events rely on shuttles or buses.

Neighbors including Joe Chamberlain protested the scope and frequency of events at the site, saying increased corporate bookings this year produced multiple large gatherings and created emergency‑access risks on a one‑lane private easement. "If there's an emergency and if there's 300 guests decide to use the road, we don't get out," Chamberlain said, urging limits or clearer emergency access arrangements.

Supporters and some committee members noted the property’s community role and fundraising for 4‑H and FFA. Committee members requested more documentation about event frequency, parking plans and emergency access before voting.

After discussion, a member moved to approve the permit "as written"; Natalie Sehr seconded the motion and the committee approved it on a hand/voice count. The chair recorded five in favor and two opposed.

The decision will be forwarded to the director of Planning and Building (the staff asked for the AAC's recommendation); the owner/applicant is Kevin Palmer (application listed as PLN2025‑00273). The committee asked staff to ensure conditions and documentation address public‑safety and parking concerns where feasible.