The debate over yard camping in Sturgis is moving forward as city leaders work to overhaul an ordinance that’s restricted residential camping since 2021. The current rules allow only one camping unit per home, and while a permit system was envisioned, residents say it was never actually put in place.
At Monday night’s meeting, officials reviewed a new framework that would create a “by‑right” allowance for homeowners. Under the proposal, properties could host up to three camping units and as many as ten campers for up to seven days outside of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. During the rally, the same limits would apply, but the stay could extend to 14 days, with discussion of possibly stretching that to 21.
For those wanting to host more than the by‑right limit, council members discussed a free permit option tied to health and safety requirements—such as sanitation, potable water, fire extinguishers, and adequate trash capacity. Hosts would also keep a guestbook for emergency and law‑enforcement use.
Parking rules were also reviewed, along with how the ordinance would apply to duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, renters, and even vacant lots. Concerns about motorcycle trailers and downtown congestion also surfaced.
The Sturgis City Council expects to have a revised ordinance ready for consideration at its next meeting on April 6.
