Weddings Reception Decorations

Do I really need a special use permit to hold Weddings on my private property if I don't charge?

I have charged people money to do and have their weddings on my 10 acres of wooded property. What I charge is very inexpensive compared to other wedding facilities. My setting is rustic. We have clean porta potties (better than what you find in a government owned park) and people enjoy the relaxed nature of the forest setting. Last month the county says I need a conditional use permit. They don't have a 'conditional use permit' especially for weddings on private property. So, to be 'legal' they want me to lie and go under 'resorts' or 'church' conditions. I am not a resort and I am not a church. to comply, we are talking thousands of dollars and ruining the rustic quiet setting we offer. We only do 12 to 15 weddings plus receptions a year, for a few hours. It is not all year round- If I don't charge for people to use my property for their wedding- do I still need a conditional use permit? What are my rights? I have a business in town and would charge the people to rent tables, chairs, linens, decorations and to coordinate the wedding and just let them use the property for no fee. Any attorneys with some real advise? How can I legally force the county make a provision for a conditional use for others like me who do only weddings? The county planners said many people have requested a permit to do weddings on their property and if they had taken charge a few years ago, guidelines would have been in place by now. As it stands now, people can either build a big asphalt commercial mess as per the conditions of the county or give it up. Are there any 'citizens against government control' organizations I may contact? I don't have a lot of money, I am just trying to make ends meet in an economy that is killing everyone except the banks and government.

Public Comments

1. Try contacting an attorney in your area who does land use and planning. Explain the circumstances and that you don't have much money. They can at least point you in the right direction to get the process moving, or you can hire them in an "advisory" position to help guide you through the steps on your own. You might also try finding a normal land planner or consultant in your area and seeing if they think they can help and what it might cost. Do you have anything to barter with? In this economy, there are more and more attorneys who are accepting items in trade for services rendered. I was just reading in the local bar journal about one attorney who has been trading services for horse feed and training. So that might be an option for you. One last thing to try, if you live near a law school you can give them a call and see if they have a legal clinic. Those clinics provide services at severely reduced rates, if not for free. They might be able to help.