KITSAP COUNTY, Wash. — Dozens of horse owners and operators of equestrian facilities in Kitsap County are voicing strong opposition to a set of proposed zoning code changes that would regulate commercial equine operations.

They argue that the new rules, if adopted, could have significant and potentially damaging effects on equestrian properties and livelihoods.

The county said the proposed changes aim to address concerns related to traffic, parking and manure storage related to commercial boarding and equestrian event facilities. However, some community members say the changes are not all feasible and are unclear.

“I think if we had had a voice in this from the beginning, the code just wouldn't have been written the way it is,” said Amanda Gelderman, who runs Evolution Equestrian on

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