Planning commission splits on Antelope Valley short‑term rental; recommends approval of two others with conditions

The Custer County Planning Commission on March 8 considered three short‑term rental (STR) applications and split its recommendations: the commission voted against recommending approval of an Antelope Valley STR over concerns about one‑way access and wildfire risk, and recommended approval of two other STRs after the applicants agreed to conditions.

At the public hearing for 510 Drunk Horse Lane in Antelope Valley, resident Ansel Crossgold read the subdivision’s protective covenants and argued STRs would violate them. "Nothing shall be done or permitted on any tract which may be or become an annoyance or a nuisance to the neighborhood," Crossgold read aloud and submitted a four‑signature neighborhood letter opposing the application. He raised specific worries about increased vehicle trips, cleaners visiting after each rental, an exposed fire pit and stacked wood near the house.

The applicant, who identified himself as Ashish, told the commission he and his family plan to operate the property "on a very limited basis" with strict house rules and local contacts. He said he would remove the fire pit and address decking and debris if the permit were approved.

Commissioners and staff noted a…