In a Tuesday, September 3rd press release, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department informed the public that it is seeking public comment on a proposed rule change that would add Brookings to the list of cities where overnight camping is prohibited along the ocean shore within the city limits.
Currently, overnight camping is prohibited on the ocean shore within the city limits of Seaside, Cannon Beach, Manzanita, Rockaway Beach, Lincoln City, Newport, Bandon, and Gold Beach.
Camping is also prohibited on the ocean shore in Clatsop and Tillamook counties, under different rules within Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s division 30.
The proposed rule change was requested via a petition from residents living near Mill Beach in Brookings who identify concerns over public health, risks to public safety, and impacts on the marine ecosystem along the ocean shore as reasons for proposing the closure of camping on the ocean shore within the city limits.
Public comments on the proposed rule change will be accepted through 5:00pm October 15th, 2024, and can be submitted:
* Online: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-Rule-2024-BrookingsOceanShores.aspx
* Mail: OPRD Department, attn: Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR, 97301
* Email: OPRD.Publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov
* Public Hearing: Wednesday, Oct. 9th, 5:00pm, Southwestern Oregon Community College-Community Room, 96082 Lone Ranch Parkway, Brookings, OR 97415
Once the public comment period ends, Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission will consider possible adoption at a meeting in the fall or winter.
