Perry County sets rules for eclipse camping

Perry County is welcoming temporary campgrounds around the county ahead of this August's total solar eclipse, but not without a few basic provisions.
In anticipation of thousands of visitors to the area for the Aug. 21 eclipse, the Perry County Board on Thursday approved an ordinance regulating temporary campgrounds, which are expected to spring up on private properties throughout the region. The ordinance is largely based on similar regulations enacted in nearby Jackson County.
"It's just a precautionary thing," said Rebecca Tracy, the county's solid waste management officer. "We don't care if you have people camping for this event, but you're going to have to follow some rules."
Those rules include registration with the county, as well as payment of of a $20 annual fee. If potable water is to be provided at campsites, it must meet standards set by Illinois code. Campgrounds also must have refuse containers, off-road parking for all vehicles, toilets and hand-washing facilities, sewage disposal facilities, a sufficiently stocked first aid kit, and conspicuously posted information about the nearest hospital.
The ordinance also sets basic rules governing campfires and any food service provided by the operator of the temporary campground.
The ordinance places no specific limits on how many campsites can be included, and the ordinance only applies to campgrounds for which the operator is receiving payment from campers.
Registration forms are available in the solid waste management office at the Perry County Government building.