Campgrounds are regulated under the authority of Chapter 3729 of the Ohio Revised Code and Chapter 3701-26 of the Ohio Administrative Code.
State law requires that all campgrounds be licensed by local health departments, and inspected to verify that campers are properly spaced, sewage / wastewater is properly handled, and free from nuisances or safety issues. The Ohio Department of Health reviews plans for new campgrounds to verify that proper design standards are met in lot arrangements and utility installation.
Ohio Department of Health, RV park and campground homepage: ODH Campground Homepage
The Mercer County Health District requires temporary licenses to be obtained for one-time camping events. The temporary license requires provisions for proper solid waste handling, provision of portable toilets, and a plan for spacing arrangements. The temporary campground license fee is $50.00 for 50 or fewer camp sites; $50.00 + $1.25 per site for greater than 50 camp sites. Call the health office or stop by if you need a temporary campground license application.
For a list of licensed campgrounds in Mercer County, contact the Health District: 419-586-3251.
Starting July 2016 inspection reports are available here: Campground Inspections. Call (419) 586-3251 ext 6-1459 or 6-1460 for prior reports.
