The Sturgis City Council revisited its revised owner‑occupied residential camping ordinance Monday night, hearing an update on changes proposed for camping during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
City Administrator Aaron Jordan presented a summary of Mayor Kevin Forrester’s recent work on the ordinance; the mayor was absent due to illness. Jordan said residential camping has long been part of the Rally economy, benefiting homeowners and tourism, but large‑scale activity can create conflicts involving parking, noise, sanitation, and neighborhood access.
Under the latest draft, homeowners could host up to three camping units, up to 10 campers, for up to seven days per year without a permit outside rally season. The same limits would apply during the Rally, though the number of allowable days is still under discussion. If camping exceeds those limits, a permit—still free—would be required.
Jordan said the revision removes constraints in the previous ordinance and clarifies rules for vacant lots. Vacant lots tied to an owner‑occupied home under the same ownership could continue to be used, while other standalone vacant‑lot camping would be phased out.
The council took no action but directed City Attorney Eric Davis to prepare a draft ordinance for consideration—and possibly a first reading—at the next meeting.
Comments