Politics & Government

County May Enact Tiered Ordinance for Small Horse Operations

The Board of Supervisors has asked staff to prepare a draft ordinance that would streamline permit applications.

Owners of small horse-related businesses may have less red tape to go through to get permits in the future.

The County Board of Supervisors has begun the process of creating tiered zoning regulations for commercial equine operations, such as horse stables and riding academies, in unincorporated areas.

The supervisors unanimously agreed Wednesday to have county staff draft an ordinance to divide commercial horse-keeping operations into tiers. The tiers would be based on property size and number of animals. The plan is to streamline the permit process to allow smaller operations to obtain permits in less time, with lower costs.

Such an ordinance will require an environmental review, which will take up to two years and cost the county $350,000. The board will act on the ordinance when the review is completed.

"This region does have a rich history, a rich Western history and a culture that I think is important to sustain,'' said Supervisor Dianne Jacob.

"I know we are starting on a journey here but at least we're
starting,'' said board Chairman Bill Horn.

The county currently requires use permits for all equine operations
regardless of size. They are subject to state law and require costly
environmental studies.

Proponents say creating tiers will allow more flexible regulations
for smaller stables to apply for permits without a public hearing or
environmental review, and that it would enforce more restrictive regulations on larger properties with more horses.

Supporters also say the new regulations would encourage owners to operate within the guidelines, as opposed to operating under the radar without a permit.

Private horse keeping for personal use would remain allowed without
permits. Animal enclosure regulations would still apply, and building permits might be necessary to construct shade structures, stables or barns.

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City News Service contributed to this report.


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