Low-impact camping areas.

Assembly Member Ward's proposal to regulate low-impact camping on private property would create a new framework distinct from California's existing special occupancy park regulations. The legislation defines low-impact camping areas as private properties offering temporary sleeping accommodations like tents, yurts, or recreational vehicles for recreational stays, provided they operate within specific parameters and in counties that authorize such use.

The bill establishes operational requirements for these camping areas, including limits of 14 consecutive nights and 28 total nights annually per camper, a maximum of nine sleeping accommodations with no more than four recreational vehicles, and minimum distance requirements from neighboring properties. Property owners must comply with local standards for waste disposal, quiet hours, and fire safety while maintaining 24/7 management availability. Counties that permit low-impact camping must create area registries, implement complaint programs, and oversee enforcement.

Online booking platforms would need to display county names and licensing information for all listings, removing non-compliant properties within seven days of county notification. The legislation maintains local control by allowing counties to opt in through ordinances while establishing baseline requirements for those that choose to authorize low-impact camping. These provisions apply only to properties of two or more acres located outside urbanized areas, with restrictions on converting existing special occupancy parks to this new designation.