Eurobodalla Council Simplifies Process for Camping Approval on Private Land

Eurobodalla Council recently addressed the inquiries surrounding the process of obtaining approval for camping on private land. For individuals contemplating setting up camping facilities on their property, it is crucial to understand the approval process to ensure compliance with regulations.

In certain instances, camping activities may be exempt from requiring formal approval, such as when it involves minor setups like family members utilizing tents or caravans near the primary residence. Moreover, farmers stand to benefit from the 2022 Agritourism Reforms, which permit camping as a complementary activity to their agricultural operations.

However, if the proposed camping setup does not fall under the exemption criteria, individuals can proceed by applying for a Development Application (DA). This application process covers a range of camping options, including farm stays, primitive camping grounds, caravan parks, or eco-tourism facilities. When submitting a DA, detailed information must be provided to the Council based on the specific restrictions applicable to the site.

Primitive campgrounds are characterized by their basic facilities with minimal amenities, typically lacking electricity or running water. Establishing such grounds necessitates adherence to various regulations, encompassing zoning laws, bushfire safety protocols, flood risk assessments, emergency plans, and sewage management practices to ensure safe and sustainable operations.

In areas where camping grounds are permitted as per zoning regulations, obtaining approval requires a thorough DA process that aligns with the stipulated planning requirements of both the Council and the NSW Government. Key considerations include ensuring appropriate zoning of the land, meeting Rural Fire Service (RFS) bushfire requirements, evaluating flood risks, devising emergency evacuation procedures, and addressing on-site sewage management and greywater disposal.

A common challenge faced by operators is determining the suitable location for on-site sewage facilities. To overcome this hurdle, applicants are advised to seek early guidance from specialized consultants to identify feasible locations and suitable systems for sewage management.

Eurobodalla Council is currently enhancing its website content to offer a more comprehensive explanation of the camping approval process. Interested parties are encouraged to monitor the Council’s caravan parks and camping grounds webpage for updates, or visit the dedicated camping on private land webpage for further information.

For more insights, individuals can explore resources such as the exemption criteria for camping approval, a guide detailing planning approvals for agritourism businesses, regulations governing farm stay accommodations, and guidelines for primitive campgrounds. This information was initially shared in the builders and developers newsletter.

To stay informed about the latest news and events from Eurobodalla Council, individuals can subscribe to the monthly email newsletter to receive regular updates.

Contact Eurobodalla Council at council@esc.nsw.gov.au or on 4474 1000 for further inquiries or assistance regarding camping approvals on private land.