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Richland board weighs limits on residential campers, sets July hearing
Summary
At a June 4 workshop the Richland Town Board debated draft rules to restrict how long and how many travel trailers or campers may be hosted on private property, aiming to prevent seasonal or year‑round conversions of residences into campgrounds; a public hearing and SEQR review are planned for July.
The Richland Town Board met June 4 for a special workshop to consider draft regulations on homeowners permitting guests to park travel trailers and campers on private property. Supervisor Robert North opened the session at 4:30 p.m.; the discussion ranged from proposed time limits to septic compliance and commercial campground thresholds.
“The board acknowledges that a balance is needed between allowing residents to host guests and preventing excessive, long-term stays that could create issues with waste management and noise,” the minutes state. Board members debated implementing a fixed time cap—examples discussed included 15 consecutive days or three weeks—to distinguish short visits from summer-long or permanent occupancy, while acknowledging exceptions raised for snowbirds and homeowners living onsite while rebuilding.
Supporters of a limit said it would prevent properties from effectively becoming continuous campgrounds, with attendant waste and noise concerns. Opponents cautioned that a strict 15‑day cap could be too restrictive in some family or seasonal circumstances. The board discussed defining a summer season (suggested ranges included April 15–Nov. 15 and alternatives such as Sept. 15) and requiring visiting campers to be roadworthy and properly registered.
No formal ordinance was adopted at the workshop. The board agreed to run the State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) concurrently with a public hearing to be scheduled in July (the second week was discussed; July 13 at 6 p.m. was suggested). After public questions, Councilman Larry Atkinson moved to adjourn, Councilwoman Donna Gilson seconded, and the board voted unanimously AYE to adjourn at 5:55 p.m.
