Navigating local zoning laws and permits can be one of the toughest parts of launching a glampground.
It’s often the biggest barrier for new glampreneurs that we hear about regularly in our conversations – but it doesn’t have to be.
With the right strategies, you can fast-track your glamping dreams.
Here are 5 land use hacks we’ve learned along the way:
Hack #1: Buy an Existing Rundown Campground
If you can find one, buying an old, rundown campground is the easiest way to launch quickly.
Why? Because the zoning and campground use are already established. You don’t have to worry about rezoning or getting permits from scratch – you can focus on renovation and marketing. I often see non-operational (or semi-operational) campgrounds that can be purchased for under $500k.
If it’s a successful campground it won’t make sense to convert to a glampground as you’ll be paying a premium for the existing business. Unfortunately this makes it hard to find as these rundown campgrounds are not always on the market!
This is exactly what we did for our first location in Promised Land, and it allowed us to open Ferncrest faster and with fewer headaches. We bought it as an off-market deal with seller financing for $285k 🙂
That said, most of the franchisees we are working with are not buying old campgrounds, so although it worked well for us, it’s certainly not the only way to get started.
Hack #2: Default to Commercial Property Whenever Possible
When selecting land, commercial zoning is your best bet. Commercial properties are generally more flexible for guest-related businesses, meaning fewer hoops to jump through when applying for permits.
What if you only have residential land? Don’t worry – it’s still possible. In some areas, you may be able to keep your operation smaller by using Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). You could start with just a couple of dome tents or tiny homes and scale up later.
Hack #3: Use the 4-Unit Rule
In certain areas, you can place up to 4 units on your property before being officially classified as a campground, which would require more extensive permits. This allows you to start generating cash flow while avoiding heavier regulatory burdens.
Be sure to check with local zoning offices to confirm whether this applies in your area. If it is, this could be an ideal way to start small and then pursue expansion at a later date.
Hack #4: Leverage Agritourism Designation
In many locations, agritourism properties are treated differently from typical commercial or residential properties. This means fewer restrictions and more flexibility.
How to qualify: Consider adding a small agricultural element, such as a flower farm, orchard, or even a simple vegetable garden. Not only can this help with zoning, but it can also serve as an additional revenue stream.
Hack #5: Use Temporary Structures Loopholes
Municipalities often have looser regulations for temporary or non-permanent structures, such as dome tents, yurts, or safari tents. These structures typically don’t require foundations, making them easier to permit.
Or…if you keep things on wheels, they are considered RVs and also not permanent structures.
Emphasize the removability of your units when working with local officials.
Want to learn more hacks like this?
Join us for the free 3-day Glampground Startup Challenge starting January 21, where we’ll walk you through how to start your glampground in 2025 – from selecting the right land to launching in as little as six months. You’ll also get the opportunity to ask questions and learn from others who are launching alongside you.
All completely free… so definitely check it out!
👉 Join the Glampground Startup Challenge
Have you come across any zoning or permit hacks that worked for you? We’d love to hear them! Just hit ‘reply’ to this email and share your story – we might feature your idea in an upcoming newsletter.
Happy Glamping!
Brian & Joanna Linton
