TOWER— The Planning and Zoning Commission here has approved a recommendation for a new city-wide ordinance that will provide operating standards for RV parks and campgrounds. The new language, adopted Feb. 22, will now go to the city council for final review and possible approval. If approved by the council, the new ordinance would likely be in effect just ahead of the spring and summer camping season.
The planning and zoning commission had promised to produce the new standards at a public hearing last year to take testimony on a conditional use permit, or CUP, for a proposed new RV park, located on Pike Bay. In recommending approval of the CUP at that time, the commission established a number of conditions to address concerns raised by nearby residents. Those same residents objected to the fact that another nearby RV park, which was already under construction, had received a CUP without conditions due to mishandling of the permit application by former city officials.
Commission members agreed that all the RV parks and campgrounds should be subject to the same standards, and they promised to make that happen through a new ordinance, which would apply to any such facility in the city.
The new guidelines, if approved by the council would:
• Restrict the use of firewood at campsites to state-certified wood only, to prevent the spread of invasive insects.
• Require an on-site manager or employee at all times during the season of operation.
• Require that all lighting meet night-sky standards to limit light pollution.
• Require that camping be limited to designated sites only.
• Require that all overnght campers or their guests be registered.
• Require quiet hours between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. Those not complying may be asked to leave.
• Require an adequate number of refuse containers.
• Require the prohibition of fireworks, except for the 4th of July.
• Require no open carry of firearms.
• Prohibit the sale of alcohol on the premises.