Major Equestrian Events License

When is an Equestrian Events License Required?

A license is required for a major equestrian event when a competition, exhibition, or other display of equestrian skills involves between 151 and 300 participants and spectators per day. At least 75 acres are required to conduct a major equestrian event and the site must have direct access to a roadway with at least an arterial classification (a road primarily used by through traffic and usually on a continuous route or highway). The equestrian event must not be held on a site that does not have the minimum acreage requirements.

When may the Equestrian Event be Held?

An equestrian event may operate only from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

How Many Equestrian Events Can take Place in One Year?

A maximum of 10 major and minor equestrian events may take place each year at any equestrian facility. That means that no more than 3 major equestrian events and no more than 7 minor equestrian events may take place in a year. Additionally, each major equestrian event must not take place for more than 3 consecutive days.

What is the Application Process?

An applicant must submit a major equestrian event license application to the zoning office of DPS. The application process is as follows:

• Prepare a traffic control plan and submit two sets of the plan and one site plan to the county’s traffic control and lighting engineering team in the Department of Public Works and Transportation detailed traffic control preparation guidelines and standards may be found on the Department of Public Works and Transportation website.
• Obtain a nutrient management prepared by a qualified professional, and a soil conservation and water quality plan prepared by the Montgomery Soil Conservation District Board.
• Prepare a lighting plan for lighting of outdoor arenas where the lighting directs light downward and does not produce glare or direct light onto nearby properties and submit the plan to the Planning Board staff for approval. The Planning Board must approve this plan before an electrical permit may be issued.
• Submit a completed application along with two copies of the site plan for the location of the event showing the area to be used for parking; the approved traffic control plan; a lighting control plan and proof of an approved Nutrient Management Plan.

When will the License be Ready to Pick Up?

The normal processing time for approval or denial of a major equestrian event application is ten days. The license is non-renewable and is valid for the three days the event is scheduled. A new license must be obtained for each event.