Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB413

Introduced
8/29/25  

Caption

Exempting certain farm owners from campground licensing.

Impact

The implementation of AB413 will directly affect state laws regarding the licensing and regulation of campgrounds. By allowing farm owners the opportunity to operate small campgrounds without the usual licensing restrictions, the bill fosters an environment conducive to agritourism. This is particularly beneficial in rural areas where economic opportunities may be limited, as it can help farmers diversify their income streams and attract visitors seeking unique outdoor experiences. However, this change could also lead to concerns about health and safety regulations that are usually enforced at licensed campgrounds.

Summary

Assembly Bill 413 (AB413) aims to exempt certain farm owners from the requirement of obtaining a campground license when operating campgrounds on their farms. Specifically, the bill allows farm owners to manage campgrounds without a license as long as their farm has no more than one campground, and the campground consists of three or fewer campsites. This legislative change is an effort to support rural tourism by simplifying the regulatory framework for farm-based campgrounds, which can serve as additional sources of income for farmers while promoting agritourism in the state.

Contention

During discussions surrounding AB413, proponents highlighted the potential economic benefits for farmers and the increased accessibility to camping experiences for the public. However, some critics expressed concerns that the exemption might compromise safety standards typically guaranteed by campground regulations. There were worries that unregulated campgrounds could lead to inconsistent experiences for visitors and potential public health risks. Balancing the promotion of agritourism with adequate oversights remains a core point of contention in the debates surrounding this bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI AB328

Exempting certain farm owners from campground licensing.

WI SB319

Exempting certain farm owners from campground licensing.

WI AB5

The regulation of pools located at short-term rentals and the partial suspension of rules promulgated by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. (FE)

WI SB3

The regulation of pools located at short-term rentals and the partial suspension of rules promulgated by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. (FE)

WI SB1001

Regulation of amusement rides located at campgrounds. (FE)

WI AB1070

Regulation of amusement rides located at campgrounds. (FE)

WI AB1124

Income tax credits for beginning farmers and owners of farm assets and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB1025

Income tax credits for beginning farmers and owners of farm assets and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB1217

Creating an employee ownership conversion costs tax credit and an exemption for capital gains from the transfer of a business to employee ownership. (FE)

WI SB616

A sales tax exemption for road-building equipment; increasing the income tax withholding threshold for nonresidents; modifying the certification requirement for a qualified opportunity fund; prohibiting certain lottery games; and extending the capital gains exclusion to family members who inherit certain farms organized as a partnership or limited liability company. (FE)

Similar Bills

MS HB1250

Campground owners; regulate guest/owner agreements.

TX HB2636

Relating to liability of a recreational vehicle park or campground entity for injuries arising from certain activities.

TX HB1478

Relating to liability of a recreational vehicle park or campground entity for injuries arising from certain activities.

OK HB3972

State government; defining terms; authorizing certain assignment of claims to the Attorney General; scope of authority; limitations; public interest standard; emergency.

UT HB0034

State Campgrounds Amendments

OK HB1814

State government; State Parks Emergency Maintenance Act; annual reporting; State Parks Emergency Maintenance Revolving Fund; effective date; emergency.

TX HB63

Relating to requirements for campgrounds located in a floodway; authorizing an administrative penalty; providing a private cause of action.

TN HB1918

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 29; Title 55; Title 62, Chapter 7; Title 66; Title 68, Chapter 110 and Title 68, Chapter 14, relative to recreational camper sites.