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Planning panel approves zoning and conditional permit for explosives testing by Nevada Southwest Energy
Summary
The Elko County Planning Commission approved a zoning change and conditional use permit allowing Nevada Southwest Energy LLC to conduct daytime explosives product testing on a 40-acre parcel, subject to deed covenants, road improvements, code compliance and restricted testing hours.
The Elko County Planning Commission voted to approve a zoning change and a conditional use permit that will allow Nevada Southwest Energy LLC to conduct explosives product-testing on a 40-acre portion of a section in western Elko County.
Staff presented Application COZ25-7 and the immediately following CUP25-1, telling commissioners the company seeks to change the site from open-space zoning to a general industrial/extractive (M1) classification to permit product testing near an existing emulsions plant. "An application submitted by Nevada Southwest Energy, LLC requesting a change of zoning from open space district to general industrial and extractive district for product testing," staff said, listing the parcel by APN and section, and recommending approval with conditions to ensure compliance with Nevada Revised Statutes and Elko County Code.
Staff outlined conditions including deed language requiring future owners to adopt the findings and conditions, road upgrades "to the minimum standard outlined in Elko County code 5.4.1 as a 32-foot gravel rural industrial standard," and operational limits. "Explosive testings will be conducted only during the daytime between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m., Mondays through Fridays," Corey (county staff) told the commission.
Commissioners asked about nearby residences and potential nuisance impacts. Staff said the parcel is remote and that nuisance findings would rely on presented evidence: if excessive disturbances occur outside the permitted hours or exceed conditions, they could be raised and enforced. After discussion, a commissioner moved to approve the zoning change and the related CUP; both measures passed on voice votes.
The permits will take effect under the conditions specified by staff; the CUP also includes a condition that any new owner who wishes to continue explosives testing must apply for a new conditional use permit within six months of purchasing the property.
The commission’s actions were procedural approvals; enforcement of operating conditions and any future nuisance complaints would follow county code and statutory processes.
