Camp operators must get an emergency preparedness license to operate, and must update it after certain camp changes.
(a) On and after January 1, 2027, a camp operator shall apply for and obtain an emergency preparedness license in accordance with the requirements of this article as a condition for conducting camp operations. (b) An emergency preparedness license shall be valid for a period of five years from the date of approval, unless a camp operator within that period makes a material change to the camp as described in subsection (c). (c) A supplemental application to maintain an emergency preparedness license that has been issued shall be submitted at any time within 45 days of any of the following material changes to the camp: (1) The boundaries of the camp are altered. (2) The number of cabins is increased. (3) Any renovation to an existing cabin which results in an increase of more than three in camper capacity. (d)(1) When granting an approval to an application for an emergency preparedness license, the agency shall include in the notice of approval to the camp operator the date on which the five-year period shall expire, which must be the deadline by which the license shall be renewed by submission of a supplemental application. (2) If a camp operator submits a supplemental application to maintain an emergency preparedness license in compliance with subsection (c), upon approval of the supplemental application, the agency may extend the deadline required under subdivision (1), but no extension may be made for a period longer than five years from the date of approval of the supplemental application. (3) Not less than 90 days before the deadline set by the agency under subdivision (1) or subdivision (2), the agency shall remind the camp operator by a written and digital notice of the deadline for submission of the supplemental application for renewal of the license. Notwithstanding the deadline, a license shall remain valid pending the agency’s determination to renew the license on a supplemental application that is submitted no later than the deadline. (e) No camp operator may apply for an emergency preparedness license without presenting documentation to the agency: (i) that the camp is regulated by the Alabama Department of Public Health for the sanitation of food preparation and lodging facilities as evidenced by a valid permit; and (ii) that the camp and camp operations are covered by liability insurance. (f) When an initial application is submitted for an emergency preparedness license, within 90 days the agency shall notify the camp operator of the determination approving or disapproving the application. (g) The agency may prescribe by rule the conditions required to implement the application and approval period conditions required in this section, and shall develop application forms and written instructions to a camp operator for documentation necessary to substantiate compliance with each section of this article. (h) If a camp operator administers camp operations at more than one camp, a separate emergency preparedness license shall be required for each camp. (i) The agency shall post, maintain, or update on the agency’s website a list of each camp that has a valid license pursuant to this article.