This bill establishes regulations for the permitting, inspection, and operation of off-road vehicle parks specifically in Cherokee County, Alabama. It mandates that, starting October 1, 2025, no person may operate such a park without a valid permit from the county commission, which may charge a permit fee not exceeding $50. The bill outlines the necessary documentation required for permit applications, including a written contract for emergency services, detailed maps of the park, and information about access points and expected routes to public roads. Additionally, the county commission is tasked with inspecting proposed parks before considering permit applications, and it may charge an inspection fee.
The bill also introduces penalties for violations, allowing the county commission to impose civil fines of up to $5,000 for operating without a permit and up to $500 for operating outside established hours. It provides a process for individuals to contest citations and outlines that all fines collected will be deposited into the county's road and bridge fund. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of following best management practices as established by the Alabama Forestry Commission and allows the county commission to contract inspectors for compliance checks. The act is set to take effect on June 1, 2025.