Why did you decide to close?

We were forced to close after being informed by Jackson County Oregon that running an art gallery on our property was a violation of the land use development ordinance (LDO).

Why was your permit denied?

We tried to obtain permission for the gallery by applying for a “home occupation” permit (as suggested by Jackson County planning). This was denied on several grounds:

• Exhibiting works by artists who aren’t residents of the property (rather than showing only our own work).

• We would only be allowed to operate by appointment only - no open hours, first-friday openings, etc.

• We would not be allowed more than two additional cars on the property at any time.

Additionally, when we spoke to the planner who issued the decision, they stated that they “did not see how the gallery added economic value to the area” and saw no way we would be able to comply with the LDO.

Was Gambrel Gallery a for-profit business?

We established Gambrel Gallery because we wanted to provide something to our local community in Southern Oregon, and we were privileged to have such a wonderful space that was perfect for a gallery. While we did operate as an Oregon LLC, which is a for-profit business entity, we invested far more time and money into running Gambrel Gallery than we ever made in return.

What about a “Home Business” application with the County?

Our property is located in the Urban Growth Boundary of Ashland, Oregon. According to the LDO 6.4.4, home businesses are not allowed in this area.

Aren’t there other permit types you could apply for, or an exception?

Perhaps. Unfortunately, Jackson County Planning will not provide any advice on obtaining permission, or an exemption, under the LDO. We would have to hire an independent Land Use Consultant or Land Use Attorney, which would be a significant cost that we cannot justify.

Could you permit yourself as ….. and just have a space that happens to have art in it?

We could try to find ways to work around the rules, but ultimately we can’t take the risk of incurring fines, which can be large. If the community wants spaces like Gambrel Gallery to exist, then the rules need to allow for them.

Can’t the city of Ashland do something?

Whilst we are in the Urban Growth Boundary of Ashland, we are part of Jackson County Oregon for planning purposes. So the city has little authority. That said, we have spoken to members of the Ashland City Council and they are very supportive of what we were doing and equally disappointed at this situation.

What about other venues in Jackson County?

Ultimately, the current LDO isn’t supportive of community-focused venues in Jackson County. We have done a little research and found that several other venues that our community enjoy are also at risk of being shut down should someone make a complaint to the County.

What else can be done?

We don’t know. Perhaps a Land Use Consultant or Land Use Attorney would be able to find a legal way forward, but we cannot justify employing one. Ultimately, we’d like to see the LDO updated to allow a reasonable path forward for community-focused activities like this.