JACKSON, Wyo. — During summer months, police field more calls than usual for illegal camping on city streets and in local parks.
Jackson Municipal Code 09.52.090 prohibits camping on city streets, city parking lots and public parking structures within town limits. It also charges individuals found to be in violation of the code a hefty fine.
The section of the code titled “Camping on Public Property,” states the following:
- It is unlawful for any person to camp on public property within the town.
- It is unlawful for any person to car-camp on public property within the town.
- Individuals can camp or car-camp on public property only under certain conditions; such as acquisition of a special event permit, approval from Town Council or a permit issued under the Town’s Land Development Regulation.
According to the Town of Jackson, “Visitors are encouraged to make reservations well in advance of their trip at privately held campgrounds or to camp in a designated campground on public lands outside of the town limits (i.e. Forest Service, national parks, BLM, etc.).”
Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF) reminds users that only camping for recreational purposes is permitted, and residing in a tent, car or RV on National Forest lands is strictly prohibited, “even if it’s just one day.” BTNF previously told Buckrail that residential use of the National Forest commonly involves unacceptable natural resource impacts, including water quality, abandoned campfires, trash and storage violations.
Violations for residing on BTNF land can result in a ticket or up to six months in jail and a $5,000 fine.
Buckrail posts this story annually.
