Vision Documents
At Happy Castle, we're not just dreaming of a better world—we're building it. If you’re passionate about art, sustainable living, ecological restoration, and creating a vibrant community, we invite you to be a part of our journey.
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Whether you're an artist, builder, or visionary, there's a place for you in our desert oasis. Join our hands-on workshops in permaculture, renewable energy, and sustainable building. Volunteer your skills, take part in our income-sharing ventures, or simply come experience the magic of off-grid living through one of our festivals or camping experiences.
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We believe that clearly expressing our vision is essential for attracting the right people to the project. So take a look and see if Happy Castle is the right income-sharing desert eco-commune for you!
Land Planning
The Master Plan: Mapping the Future of the Happy Castle Art Camp
Happy Castle is projected to progress in many, many phases of construction, but has been designed from the beginning, to eventually materialize in a cohesive and complementary overall layout. Remember, we're not just an eco-village, but a campground, farm, and festival venue. These pieces, business and community, must fit together in a way that promotes long term success of both.
That said, the camp layout has been carefully designed many years in advance of the actual construction of certain parts. This design is always subject to change as the needs of the camp change or adapt in the future, but as a general blueprint, there are currently several Master Plans being currently considered.
Happy Castle
community
land trust
Declaration and Governing Document
The Happy Castle Community Land Trust and Homestead program prevent extractive development while allowing for carefully managed, inclusive, ecologically responsible growth, ensuring that Happy Castle remains a beacon of sustainability, creativity, and community for generations to come. In the future, this project can be expanded as we invest in regional community building resources, providing affordable and accessible natural buildings to all of New Mexico and eventually the world.
HAPPY CASTLE COMMUNITY LAND TRUST (CLT) DECLARATION AND GOVERNING DOCUMENT ARTICLE I: NAME AND PURPOSE 1.1 Name: The name of this entity shall be the Happy Castle Community Land Trust ("HCCLT"). 1.2 Purpose: The purpose of HCCLT is to ensure that land within Happy Castle remains a communal resource, protected from speculation and extractive development, and to promote self-sufficiency, ecological restoration, sustainable building, and community resilience. HCCLT will manage land use, stewardship, and development in a way that aligns with the principles of regenerative living, cooperative land tenure, and artistic expression. ARTICLE II: LAND OWNERSHIP AND STEWARDSHIP 2.1 Communal Ownership: The primary 160-acre parcel of Happy Castle shall be held in perpetuity by HCCLT and cannot be sold or developed in ways that compromise sustainability, environmental health, or community integrity. 2.2 Within this 160-acre (square-quarter-mile) Land Trust, there are two designations for the land, the first being a circular 125-acre interior area belonging to residents of the Happy Castle Commune in common (herein referred to as communal land or that being within the perimeter of the Dry Moat) and 30 acres of land divided amongst the four corners of the 160-acre property to be subdivided into private lots with deed significant restrictions (herein referred to as Homesteader parcels or simply land outside the perimeter of the Dry Moat). 2.3 Happy Castle Homesteader Program: Select portions of land outside the core communal and festival areas beyond the Dry Moat may be allocated for private homesteads within a structured and regulated framework. These parcels will be leased or sold with deed restrictions to ensure they contribute to the mission of Happy Castle. 2.4 Deed Restrictions on Happy Castle Homestead Parcels: Any privately owned or leased parcels within the Happy Castle Community Land Trust shall be subject to the following restrictions: Single Ownership Rule: No entity or individual may own more than one parcel to prevent speculation. Each parcel may not exceed one acre. Sustainable Development: All structures built on these parcels must use natural building techniques, prioritize carbon neutrality, and align with Happy Castle’s ecological vision. Infrastructure Integration: Owners may opt into shared resources such as the well-share and solar co-op program as well as take advantage of educational workshops at Happy Castle Art Camp to lower individual costs and maintain communal resource efficiency. Public Pathways: A planned network of public paths shall be integrated into private land use to maintain walkability and accessibility, without infringing on personal privacy. Sitewide Permaculture Design Integration: Parcels must physically contribute to the overall cohesive permaculture plan developed by Happy Castle Art Camp and not make development decisions that intentionally harm or hinder integrated cohesion with neighboring parcels. Community Infrastructure Fee: A small annual fee paid for the maintenance of communal infrastructure, such as paths, landscaping, energy, and water resources, dependent on a Homestead’s integration and personal use, never exceeding 1/99th of actual assessed costs. Community Contribution Fee: Any future resale of private Homestead parcels shall require a 15% transfer fee paid to HCCLT to fund communal projects, infrastructure, and ecological restoration. 2.5 Reinvestment in Growth: Any revenue generated through the Happy Castle Homesteader Program (i.e. Community Contribution Fees) will be reinvested into infrastructure expansion, community projects, and broader sustainability initiatives, including reforestation and permaculture efforts through the Happy Castle 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), or Cooperative Enterprise, LLC. ARTICLE III: GOVERNANCE AND DECISION-MAKING 3.1 Board of Stewards: HCCLT shall be governed by a Board of Stewards, responsible for land use decisions, ensuring adherence to community guidelines, and managing resources. This board will include members from various stakeholder groups, including community residents, Happy Castle Homestead parcel owners, festival organizers, and ecological stewards. 3.2 Community Council: A participatory decision-making body, consisting of Happy Castle residents and contributors, shall advise the Board of Stewards and participate in major land-use planning discussions. 3.3 Conflict Resolution: Disputes related to land use, stewardship responsibilities, and communal agreements shall be resolved through a structured mediation process, prioritizing community values and ecological ethics. ARTICLE IV: LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 4.1 Eco-Village and Communal Spaces: The Happy Castle Eco-Village shall be organized around shared infrastructure, such as community kitchens, greenhouses, and artist studios, fostering collaboration and resource efficiency. 4.2 Festival and Campground Area: The Happy Castle campground shall remain an immersive, interactive space used for events, creative expression, and sustainable tourism, generating income to support land conservation and infrastructure development. 4.3 Permaculture and Regeneration Efforts: HCCLT commits to a long-term sitewide land restoration strategy, including rainwater harvesting, soil rehabilitation, and native reforestation to combat desertification and create a thriving self-sustaining ecosystem. 4.4 Homestead Parcels: The overall design of the interior communally-owned land, including the placement of structures, infrastructure improvements, and landscape design choices should take into consideration the integration of Homestead parcels outside the communally-owned perimeter. ARTICLE V: AMENDMENTS AND DISSOLUTION 5.1 Amendments: This document may be amended by a supermajority vote (⅔) of the Board of Stewards, following consultation with the Community Council. 5.2 Dissolution: In the unlikely event of dissolution, all assets shall be transferred to a mission-aligned land trust or nonprofit dedicated to sustainable land stewardship and community resilience. ARTICLE VI: LEGAL STATUS AND COMPLIANCE 6.1 Nonprofit Status: HCCLT shall operate as a nonprofit entity, holding land in trust for community benefit and ensuring tax compliance under applicable 501(c)(4) provisions. 6.2 Regulatory Compliance: HCCLT shall comply with all relevant zoning laws, environmental regulations, and land use policies while advocating for legal frameworks that support regenerative and cooperative land ownership models.
501(c)(4)
nonprofitMissionstatements
Environment, Economic Autonomy, and the Eco-Village Movement
The Happy Castle Advocacy is a social-welfare organization organized for the purpose of lobbying for net-negative emissions policies, fighting for eco-village legal recognition, and pushing for alternative zoning and building codes. Happy Castle Advocacy cannot accept tax-deductible donations. However, it can receive funding from our 501(c)(3) for educational purposes and vice versa. This multi-entity approach, in conjunction with the Happy Castle Cooperative, LLC and Community Land Trust allows us to enable tax-deductible donations through the 501(c)(3). while engaging in explicitly political advocacy through the 501(c)(4).
1. Radical Self-Sufficiency & Sustainability Carbon-Negative Commitment: Happy Castle aims to go beyond sustainability into climate restoration by achieving a net-negative carbon footprint. Zero-Carbon, Zero-Waste, Regenerative Practices: Integrating renewable energy, permaculture, and regenerative desert greening to actively heal the environment rather than just reduce harm. High-Desert Off-Grid Living: Pioneering innovative, low-impact desert lifestyles through Earthbag and Superadobe housing, rainwater harvesting, and self-sufficient systems. 2. Economic Autonomy Through Cooperatively Owned Enterprises Income-Sharing Model: Members earn a daily stipend while keeping personal costs low, ensuring financial stability without reliance on traditional employment. Diverse Income Streams: Happy Castle sustains itself through festivals, merchandise, sustainable agriculture, workshops, and creative endeavors, ensuring long-term resilience. Scaling the Movement: Revenue supports the creation of new, radical eco-villages, expanding income-sharing and self-sufficient lifestyles. 3. Radical Accessibility & Participation Multi-Tiered Involvement: Offering various levels of commitment—from visitors and short-term campers to long-term residents and full-income-sharing members. Art-Driven, Inclusive Culture: Festivals, interactive installations, and creative spaces foster participation and self-expression, making eco-village life more inviting. Educational & Social Development: Providing workshops, skill-building, and communal support to empower residents in their personal and creative growth. 4. Community, Collaboration & Governance Pods & Camps Model: Functional teams manage different aspects of the village, balancing individual strengths with collective responsibility. Rotational Labor & Work-Life Balance: Tasks are distributed equitably to prevent burnout, ensuring that members can develop diverse skill sets while maintaining autonomy. Conflict Resolution & Governance: A participatory, consensus-driven model ensures fairness, adaptability, and collective decision-making. 5. Political & Global Climate Action Policy Advocacy: Using the commune’s success as a proof of concept to push for large-scale political action on emissions, land restoration, and sustainable living. Expanding the Eco-Village Movement: Providing direct financial and logistical support to support the emergence of radically diverse income-sharing communities worldwide. Reforesting & Desert Restoration: Happy Castle’s experimental desert nursery and large-scale planting initiative serve as a model for ecological regeneration.
501(c)(4)
nonprofitArticlesof incorporation
Happy Castle Activism and Advocacy
The Happy Castle Advocacy is a social-welfare organization organized for the purpose of lobbying for net-negative emissions policies, fighting for eco-village legal recognition, and pushing for alternative zoning and building codes. Happy Castle Advocacy cannot accept tax-deductible donations. However, it can receive funding from our 501(c)(3) for educational purposes and vice versa. This multi-entity approach, in conjunction with the Happy Castle Cooperative, LLC and Community Land Trust allows us to enable tax-deductible donations through the 501(c)(3). while engaging in explicitly political advocacy through the 501(c)(4).
1. Radical Self-Sufficiency & Sustainability Carbon-Negative Commitment: Happy Castle aims to go beyond sustainability into climate restoration by achieving a net-negative carbon footprint. Zero-Carbon, Zero-Waste, Regenerative Practices: Integrating renewable energy, permaculture, and regenerative desert greening to actively heal the environment rather than just reduce harm. High-Desert Off-Grid Living: Pioneering innovative, low-impact desert lifestyles through Earthbag and Superadobe housing, rainwater harvesting, and self-sufficient systems. 2. Economic Autonomy Through Cooperatively Owned Enterprises Income-Sharing Model: Members earn a daily stipend while keeping personal costs low, ensuring financial stability without reliance on traditional employment. Diverse Income Streams: Happy Castle sustains itself through festivals, merchandise, sustainable agriculture, workshops, and creative endeavors, ensuring long-term resilience. Scaling the Movement: Revenue supports the creation of new, radical eco-villages, expanding income-sharing and self-sufficient lifestyles. 3. Radical Accessibility & Participation Multi-Tiered Involvement: Offering various levels of commitment—from visitors and short-term campers to long-term residents and full-income-sharing members. Art-Driven, Inclusive Culture: Festivals, interactive installations, and creative spaces foster participation and self-expression, making eco-village life more inviting. Educational & Social Development: Providing workshops, skill-building, and communal support to empower residents in their personal and creative growth. 4. Community, Collaboration & Governance Pods & Camps Model: Functional teams manage different aspects of the village, balancing individual strengths with collective responsibility. Rotational Labor & Work-Life Balance: Tasks are distributed equitably to prevent burnout, ensuring that members can develop diverse skill sets while maintaining autonomy. Conflict Resolution & Governance: A participatory, consensus-driven model ensures fairness, adaptability, and collective decision-making. 5. Political & Global Climate Action Policy Advocacy: Using the commune’s success as a proof of concept to push for large-scale political action on emissions, land restoration, and sustainable living. Expanding the Eco-Village Movement: Providing direct financial and logistical support to support the emergence of radically diverse income-sharing communities worldwide. Reforesting & Desert Restoration: Happy Castle’s experimental desert nursery and large-scale planting initiative serve as a model for ecological regeneration.
501(c)(3)
nonprofitArticlesof incorporation
Education and Culture
The Happy Castle Foundation is a nonprofit educational and cultural organization organized for the purpose of funding education, research, and eco-village development. This Foundation cannot engage in direct political lobbying and other substantial business activity like our 501(c)(4). However, it can accept tax-deductible donations and grants, provide educational programs, art grants, sustainability research, reforestation initiatives, and community outreach. This multi-entity approach, in conjunction with the Happy Castle Cooperative, LLC and Community Land Trust allows us to pursue our political mission to advance income-sharing eco-villages and natural building while enabling tax-deductible donations through the 501(c)(3).
1. Radical Self-Sufficiency & Sustainability Carbon-Negative Commitment: Happy Castle aims to go beyond sustainability into climate restoration by achieving a net-negative carbon footprint. Zero-Carbon, Zero-Waste, Regenerative Practices: Integrating renewable energy, permaculture, and regenerative desert greening to actively heal the environment rather than just reduce harm. High-Desert Off-Grid Living: Pioneering innovative, low-impact desert lifestyles through Earthbag and Superadobe housing, rainwater harvesting, and self-sufficient systems. 2. Economic Autonomy Through Cooperatively Owned Enterprises Income-Sharing Model: Members earn a daily stipend while keeping personal costs low, ensuring financial stability without reliance on traditional employment. Diverse Income Streams: Happy Castle sustains itself through festivals, merchandise, sustainable agriculture, workshops, and creative endeavors, ensuring long-term resilience. Scaling the Movement: Revenue supports the creation of new, radical eco-villages, expanding income-sharing and self-sufficient lifestyles. 3. Radical Accessibility & Participation Multi-Tiered Involvement: Offering various levels of commitment—from visitors and short-term campers to long-term residents and full-income-sharing members. Art-Driven, Inclusive Culture: Festivals, interactive installations, and creative spaces foster participation and self-expression, making eco-village life more inviting. Educational & Social Development: Providing workshops, skill-building, and communal support to empower residents in their personal and creative growth. 4. Community, Collaboration & Governance Pods & Camps Model: Functional teams manage different aspects of the village, balancing individual strengths with collective responsibility. Rotational Labor & Work-Life Balance: Tasks are distributed equitably to prevent burnout, ensuring that members can develop diverse skill sets while maintaining autonomy. Conflict Resolution & Governance: A participatory, consensus-driven model ensures fairness, adaptability, and collective decision-making. 5. Political & Global Climate Action Policy Advocacy: Using the commune’s success as a proof of concept to push for large-scale political action on emissions, land restoration, and sustainable living. Expanding the Eco-Village Movement: Providing direct financial and logistical support to support the emergence of radically diverse income-sharing communities worldwide. Reforesting & Desert Restoration: Happy Castle’s experimental desert nursery and large-scale planting initiative serve as a model for ecological regeneration.
Community Covenants
Does This Sound Like You?
Happy Castle isn't intent on dictating what types of people live and create with us. We value diversity, inclusiveness, self-expression, creativity and compassion. As long as you resonate with our mission of building a fully self-sufficient desert eco-commune, campground, and festival venue, then we want your help.
However, intentional-communities like ours require documents like these to ensure that everyone who comes to collaborate is safe and compatible with the overall aspirations of the camp. That said, peruse the Membership Policy below.
1. Radical Inclusion: The community here at Happy Castle is likely to be unlike any you've ever witnessed before. We will become home for people from all walks of life and . While we will seek collaborators who align with our ultimate goals and vision, differences are to be expected, but should also be celebrated. All our members should treat one another with respect and open-mindedness. Bigotry or violence is grounds for expulsion. ​ 2. Communal Effort and Contribution: In a venture like this, it only works if everyone pulls their weight. We all come to the table with different skills, experiences, and passions, all of which will be valuable in helping realize such and ambitious project. Some specialization is certain to occur, but it's important that we respect our neighbors by not just doing the jobs we want to do. We all have to clean, we all have to cook, and we all have to contribute to common duties. Unwillingness to contribute as expected creates conflict and resentments and could be grounds for expulsion. ​ 3. Consent: With dozens of beautiful, passionate, intelligent and creative people in such close quarters with one another, romantic relationships are inevitably going to occur. So are flings, tristes, and breakups. It's important that all parties enthusiastically consent to all activities which involve them and keep in mind the bigger picture when things don't work out. That said, sexual harassment and non-consensual interactions are grounds for expulsion. ​ 4. Self-Sufficiency: Residents are expected to live in ways which promote the overall self-sufficiency of the camp as a whole. Besides rotating work-duties, resident should be conscious about their own personal consumption of common resources as well as potential misappropriations. We aim to build a self-sufficient camp which provides abundance for us all, but this will not happen all at once. Respect the vision and create the culture. ​ 5. Environmental Consciousness: Every resident should respect and cherish our natural world. Even as we struggle to establish total self-sufficiency and ecological neutrality in the desert, we must remember to our responsibility to the Earth. What we make and consume should reflect this wherever possible, seeking permanence, efficiency and foresight. A large part of our mission is to advocating for polices and practices that align with a carbon-negative future, so let's live what we preach. ​ 6. Kindness and Compassion: Residents should practice kindness and compassion in their interactions with one another as well as the many thousands of visitors we will see each year. As Villagers, we all have a responsibility to growing and spreading Happy Castle's message of a kinder, more inclusive, and sustainable future. Therefore, each of us is an ambassador and spokesperson for our radical lifestyle. Remember this when you interact with one another. ​ 7. Criminality: A project like ours is likely to attract lot's of attention, both welcome and otherwise. It's of utmost importance that our members are not engaged in activities onsite that may threaten the success of the project as a whole. Illegal activities which put the camp in jeopardy can be grounds for expulsion.
Membership Policy
What Does Being a Member Entail?
Happy Castle offers membership to individuals who align with the values, mission, and vision of the commune. Members contribute their time, skills, and resources to build a self-sustaining, inclusive, and ecologically responsible community.
Membership at Happy Castle is a commitment to communal living, income-sharing, ecological stewardship, and creative expression. As a start-up venture with diverse revenue streams—such as festivals, campground rentals, events, and merchandise—each member’s commitment to the commune’s profitability is essential to our collective success.
Membership Requirements: Entrepreneurial Spirit: Members must demonstrate a willingness to contribute to Happy Castle’s profitability. As a start-up business, we rely on creative thinking, problem-solving, and active participation in our communal ventures. From helping to organize festivals and events to contributing ideas for new income streams or assisting in the operation of existing businesses (such as the campground, merchandise sales, or workshops), each member plays a vital role in driving growth and innovation. Commitment to the Vision: Beyond financial contributions, members must align with the community’s vision of sustainability, self-sufficiency, and personal growth. You’ll be asked to actively participate in creating an inclusive, harmonious, and ecologically conscious space. Work Contribution: As part of living at Happy Castle, members are required to participate in various communal labor efforts, from tending gardens to maintaining infrastructure. The expectation is not just to work but to actively contribute ideas and improvements that help the commune thrive as a business and community. Skills and Expertise: While we welcome members from all backgrounds, individuals with skills in sustainable building, farming, event production, marketing, or business development will be particularly valued during these formative years. Your entrepreneurial skills will be vital to transforming Happy Castle from vision to reality. Membership Process: Application: Interested individuals must complete an online application detailing their skills, interests, and personal alignment with Happy Castle’s values. Special emphasis will be placed on your entrepreneurial experience, business-related skills, and ideas for growing the commune’s profitability. Initial Interview: Selected applicants will undergo an interview process to assess their fit within the community, focusing on their work ethic, entrepreneurial spirit, and vision for contributing to Happy Castle’s growth. Trial Period: Approved applicants will join Happy Castle under a three-month trial period. During this time, new members will participate in communal work, contribute to entrepreneurial initiatives, and immerse themselves in camp life. At the end of the trial, a vote will be held by existing members to approve permanent membership. Full Membership Vote: Permanent membership requires a two-thirds majority vote from the current members to be granted, with exceptions for founders or key personnel at the commune’s discretion. Financial Obligations: Income-Sharing: All income generated by personal or group ventures onsite will be shared among members according to the income-sharing agreements. This ensures that the success of individual businesses contributes to the greater whole, reinforcing the importance of community and collective financial stability. Daily Stipend: Members receive a daily stipend, based on Happy Castle’s annual profits and distributed equitably among full-time residents. As a start-up, members should anticipate that stipends may be modest during the early phases, as much of the initial revenue will be reinvested into expanding the commune’s infrastructure and business potential. Termination of Membership: Membership can be terminated if a member consistently fails to meet their responsibilities or disrupts the community’s harmony and growth. An expulsion requires an 80% majority vote by existing members.
Community
Camps
Income-Generating Camps and Supportive Camps
Happy Castle is more than an intentional community; it’s a business enterprise with the goal of self-sufficiency, environmental restoration, and personal self-actualization for our members.
While traditional elements of community life, such as labor-sharing, conflict resolution, and cooperation, are crucial, our ability to generate income from the businesses we’ve built around our festival, campground, workshops, and merchandise is central to our success.
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To achieve this, we structure our community into various pods, called Camps, which act as specialized committees for different aspects in the administration of business activities and communal-life. These Camps focus on different aspects of both the business and the communal life, allowing us to allocate human resources efficiently while ensuring that all residents feel valued, appreciated, and not overworked. Each Camp has specific responsibilities, and community members are encouraged to join Camps that align with their skills, passions, and strengths. You can see some of these Camps in our Community Camps section. These Camps design their own individual organizational structures, internally electing leadership to ensure their smooth and efficient functioning. Although these Camps are quite specialized in scope, they are in turn overseen by more generalized committees, called Councils. These Councils are composed of members elected from the Camps which they represent and they are tasked with defining goals, projects and strategies of the Camps below them, attempting to align them to the larger scope and vision of Happy Castle. Key Councils at Happy Castle: Business Development Council: Focuses on revenue-generating activities, including festivals, campground rentals, merchandise, workshops, and events. This Council oversees marketing strategies, partnerships, and expanding the business model. Creative and Artistic Council: Responsible for art installations, performances, and overall artistic direction. They coordinate artists, art grants, and creative projects that enhance both the community and its appeal to visitors. Infrastructure and Construction Council: Manages physical labor and construction projects such as Superadobe homes, art installations, and communal infrastructure. This is crucial for maintaining and expanding the physical space. Social Media and Marketing Council: Develops and implements strategies to raise Happy Castle’s visibility. They are responsible for maintaining an active online presence, managing campaigns, and driving engagement with external audiences. Membership and Culture Council: Oversees the integration of new members, conflict resolution, trial memberships, and general community well-being. This Council ensures that the communal culture is preserved and that personal growth is supported. Sustainability and Environmental Council: Focuses on our ecological goals, maintaining the systems that ensure Happy Castle is environmentally responsible. This Council works on permaculture, water conservation, renewable energy, and sustainable building. Finance and Administration Council: Responsible for managing communal finances, budgeting, and planning for future investments in both business ventures and communal improvements. Work-Life Balance & Allocation of Skills While it’s important that each member contributes according to their strengths, we recognize that roles vary in visibility and physical labor intensity. Infrastructure and Construction Camps, for example, might engage in more hands-on, labor-intensive work, whereas members of Social Media and Marketing Camps may focus on digital outreach and strategy development. To prevent friction, our Camps function collaboratively, working together on many common projects, and we strive to ensure that all members feel equally valued regardless of the nature of their contribution. Moreover, we encourage trial and long-term members to take part in different Camps to ensure balanced experiences and the chance to explore new skill sets. At Happy Castle, all roles—from social media management to building Superadobe domes—are crucial to our shared success. Cooperative Ownership: The New American Dream Happy Castle’s future depends on entrepreneurial spirit. We want artists and creatives who understand that regardless of talent, building your dreams takes hard work, but is nevertheless easier when we all work together. Residents are expected to contribute not only to communal living but to our broader business goals. Whether it’s through launching new projects, expanding our festival or campground infrastructure, or selling merchandise, we need every member to bring their ideas, energy, and inspiration to the table. This balance of community life and business is what will help Happy Castle thrive and expand. By maintaining a structure that is flexible and responsive to our needs as a community and as a business, we can ensure that our residents are both fulfilled and fully contributing to the long-term success of Happy Castle.
Decision Making and Governance
Make Your Voice Heard
As a non-profit organization, we're required to have a Board of Directors, a majority of which must have no vested interest in the camp. As a community, we want every voice to carry equal weight and representation. As a company, we want to ensure efficient and effective leadership and business practices.
These interrelated aspects of Happy Castle require a unique approach to decision-making and governance which blends and balances community-consensus with the division of labor. We've established a system of numerous semi-independent administrative pods, called Camps, which oversee various functions of the commune. These individual camps have a fair-bit of discretion in how they organize and operate themselves, but are required to seek community-wide approval for most materially significant projects.
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Decision Making and Governance
Consensus and Supermajorities
As a whole Happy Castle as a whole attempts to make inclusive and intelligent decisions through a modified consensus-style decision making process. Major decisions which affect the entirety of the camp or alter its vision or mission will be decided through consensus before being implemented. Rather than accepting or rejecting any proposal outright, members will seek to understand the various sides, benefits and drawbacks, and collectively arrive at a decision all members can live with. With consensus-style decision making, the goal is to reach a mutually acceptable conclusion, not to get your particular preference enacted, so while it is encouraged to voice concerns and repeatedly modify the original proposition, eventually members should strive for resolution. Members should be able to articulate their objections and support to different proposals in relation to Happy Castle’s larger mission, not impede the process for personal reasons. However, under rare circumstances this will happen. In those cases, a proposition can still be accepted with consensus minus three. All current and prospective members will be versed in Consensus Decision Making as part of their new member orientation and should be prepared to participate in Town Council meetings. As part of their weekly work requirements, Happy Castle members will meet once a week for Town Council meetings where the Town Council will present their Agenda for discussion.
Town Council
The Town Council is essentially the legislative body at Happy Castle. They are elected to the position through Ranked Choice Voting and serve for six month terms. They coordinate with other Camps to design weekly agendas for discussion, including propositions for changes or modifications to the Happy Castle mission or strategy. They are also the main conduit for Camp Boards to pass along ideas and issues they’ve noticed that would require consensus to implement or correct. Primarily, the Town Council designs proposals for and oversees the responsible use of common funds which ensure the long-term viability of Happy Castle. They present these proposals to the camp at large which can choose to accept them as they are, modify them, table for later, or reject them.
Whereas individual Community Camps have some prerogative in deciding on internal changes in strategy and resource allocations, the Town Council must seek the consensus of the entire camp before implementing any proposals. Occasionally, depending on the impact of a proposed change, a Community Camp will have to submit a proposal to the Town Council. For example, while Camp Greenhouse can coordinate with Camp Construction and Camp Land Plan to design and place an additional greenhouse, they’d have to submit a petition with the Town Council for the funds needed to do this and get consensus approval from other members.
Community Camps
Happy Castle’s various businesses, divisions, and administrative functions will be divided into pods called Community Camps. Each Camp is composed of members who specialize in and operate that particular area. Camps democratically elect their own leadership, who we’ll refer to as Boards, who take on managerial responsibilities inside their Camp. Members can belong to any number of Camps and serve on as many boards as they’re elected to. However, not every Camp has the same needs or structure of every other Camp, so while one Camp such as Festival Planning for example, might need a Treasurer to track income, design budgets, and oversee spending, another Camp such as Waste Management, might not.
Some Camps will be “income-generating” Camps and have particularly important roles in ensuring Happy Castle’s overall success. All Camps are encouraged to get creative about ways to generate revenue or cut costs, but core income-generating Camps will face unique organizational pressure to build healthy financially balanced businesses. Other Camps are more concerned with supportive roles, like sanitation, cooking, construction, or the administration of commune life, such as onboarding new members. Every Camp will have the primary responsibility for resolving internal conflicts, strategizing, and streamlining their own processes. Despite this degree of separation, Camps should remember that they are partners with neighboring Camps, specializing in one aspect of the same overall mission of building a thriving commune, campground, and festival venue. Enthusiastic communication and cooperation between Camps are integral to our shared success.
Elections
Individual Community Camps will host their own elections for the various roles they identify a need for. Not every Camp will have the same positions or organizational structure, and we encourage this diversity in exploring what is most conducive to each Camp’s particular needs, goals, efficiency and culture. However, as a guideline, leadership positions should be elected through Ranked-Choice-Voting to a reasonable term of service. Outside of individual Camps, Happy Castle as a whole will establish several other elected positions essential to its efficient and effective governance as both a business entity and community. Most notably, this will include the creation of the Town Council.
Community Camps: Pods, Planning, and Businesses
Happy Castle is as much of a start-up mission-driven business venture as it is a commune. We understand that this type of set-up might not be for everyone who is searching for a community to call home, but for some of us, it’s just what we’ve been looking for.
While as a community, we’re designing for ultimate connectedness, as a business entity, some level of separation is necessary. Happy Castle will be composed of a number of income-generating businesses as well as various “public-service departments”. Just like society at large, each one of these requires its own specialized leadership and support.
This way, we can take advantage of efficiency. Not everyone has the greenest-thumb, but not everyone has to when we have farmers. Not everyone or These specialized pods are called Camps.
For example, Camp Cholla may be responsible for managing Happy Castle’s social-media while Camp Mesquite ensures the success of our permaculture projects. In addition to designating a business or administrative area, each Camp functions as a sort of pod for our members. Think of this almost like a neighborhood except your neighbors are your coworkers and teammates.
Although together neighborhoods make-up a cohesive city, like Happy Castle Art Camp, separately each one is special and unique. New members can apply for a particular Camp depending on their interests and abilities or be assigned to one depending on Happy Castle’s current needs. As you build your life at Happy Castle, we encourage you to serve on multiple boards and committees from other Camps depending on your particular strengths, but you’ll always have a unique responsibility to your Camp in terms of promoting it’s specific culture of community life as well as contributing to the successful operation of its business or administrative aspects. While some of our people might stick with their first placement for life, indulging in their passion for gardening, teaching, conservation, or whatever else their neighbors might need, others might prefer to move around and experience life in multiple Camps. Find your Camp and do what you love!
At Happy Castle, we’re searching for synergy and harmony with one’s work-life balance by combining and sharing resources, eliminating redundancies, and promoting common wellbeing. By working together, we don’t have to live the majority of our lives working at a job we hate for wages that barely subsist us in a society that seems designed to alienate us. We can create a revolutionary home together that frees us from this oppressive consumerist system, allowing us to create the rich, happy, meaningful lives that we deserve and build the world we want. If you think you can help bring the Happy Castle vision to life, we encourage you to apply to one or more of our Camps. We’re looking for artists, visionaries, and leaders like you!
Community Structure Overview
How is Happy Castle Organized?
Happy Castle is a non-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors as required by law. To maintain transparency and ethical governance, a majority of the Board must have no vested interest in the commune. At the same time, Happy Castle’s internal governance structure emphasizes community consensus and equal representation for all members. Balancing this with efficient and effective business practices, we’ve developed a multi-tiered decision-making system that promotes community engagement while ensuring our mission-driven business ventures remain sustainable.
The governance structure of Happy Castle includes the following key elements: Board of Directors: Oversight body, legally required for the non-profit. Town Council: Elected body for community-wide governance. Community Camps: Semi-autonomous groups with specific operational responsibilities. Camp Councils: Oversee groups of related Community Camps to align their work with the larger commune’s vision. I. Decision-Making and Consensus At Happy Castle, decisions are made inclusively and collaboratively through a modified consensus model. For major decisions that affect the entire commune, members will work toward understanding all sides of the issue and attempt to reach a mutually agreeable solution. The goal is not individual preference but collective harmony. Consensus Minus Three: In rare circumstances where full consensus cannot be reached, a decision may still move forward if only three or fewer members dissent. Supermajority Requirement: Certain decisions, such as expulsion from the community or changes to core policies, will require an 80% approval from members to proceed. II. Governance Structure A. Board of Directors The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the financial, legal, and structural well-being of Happy Castle. The Board must ensure the organization stays aligned with its non-profit status, complies with state and federal regulations, and pursues its mission. Directors serve staggered terms and are responsible for appointing key administrative roles and reviewing major financial decisions. A majority of Board members cannot have a vested interest in the camp to ensure ethical oversight. B. Town Council The Town Council is the primary legislative body at Happy Castle. Elected through Ranked-Choice Voting for six-month terms, it is responsible for coordinating with the Camps to set agendas, pass proposals, and oversee the effective use of communal resources. The Town Council also represents the commune in decision-making that affects Happy Castle as a whole, ensuring that each Camp’s projects align with the larger vision. Roles of the Town Council: Agenda Setting: Collaborate with Camps to define weekly agenda items. Community Proposals: Facilitate discussions on changes or modifications to Happy Castle’s mission or strategies. Financial Oversight: Oversee communal funds and ensure their responsible use. Approval of Camp Projects: Evaluate project proposals from Camps that require commune-wide consensus. C. Community Camps Community Camps are semi-autonomous administrative groups that oversee specific aspects of Happy Castle’s operations. Each Camp is democratically managed by its members and elects its own leadership. Camps are encouraged to organize themselves in ways that best suit their needs and goals, while also working in harmony with other Camps to fulfill Happy Castle’s larger mission. Income-Generating Camps: These Camps, such as those managing festival operations, merchandise sales, or events, are integral to the financial success of Happy Castle. They will face additional responsibilities to maintain profitable ventures. Supportive Camps: Other Camps focus on internal commune needs like waste management, infrastructure, or member onboarding. These are essential for keeping the community functioning smoothly. D. Camp Councils Camp Councils act as intermediate oversight bodies for groups of related Camps. They define goals, develop strategies, and evaluate projects across multiple Camps, ensuring these align with the overall mission of Happy Castle. Each Council is made up of representatives elected by the various Camps under its purview. Functions of Camp Councils: Project Alignment: Ensure projects from individual Camps align with commune-wide goals. Resource Coordination: Allocate resources and resolve conflicts between Camps. Goal Setting: Set long-term goals that support the mission of Happy Castle. III. Election Process A. Town Council Elections Elections for the Town Council use Ranked-Choice Voting to ensure fair and representative outcomes. Members of the commune vote for Town Council candidates every six months. The elected Town Council is responsible for representing the entire community and ensuring a transparent and inclusive decision-making process. B. Camp Elections Each Community Camp will organize its own elections to fill leadership positions. The structure and roles within each Camp may vary based on its function and needs. Leadership terms will be determined by the Camp members, but elections are encouraged to use Ranked-Choice Voting for equitable representation. IV. Financial Governance The Town Council will collaborate with Camps to manage the communal funds. Camps that require funding for significant projects, such as construction or expansion, must submit a proposal to the Town Council for approval. Major financial decisions that impact the broader commune will be subject to community-wide consensus. V. Conflict Resolution While each Camp is primarily responsible for resolving internal conflicts, more complex disputes may be escalated to the Town Council for mediation. A structured conflict resolution process will help maintain the community’s well-being and ensure disputes are handled fairly and transparently. VI. Conclusion Happy Castle's governance structure is designed to balance community consensus, business efficiency, and the pursuit of our shared vision. Through the collaboration of the Board, Town Council, Camp Councils, and individual Community Camps, we aim to create a thriving, self-sustaining commune that fosters personal growth, financial sustainability, and ecological harmony.
Housing progression policy
As part of our commitment to sustainable growth, equitable community development, and continual skill-building, Happy Castle follows a tiered dome housing progression policy to manage residential accommodations.
Moving Out of Your Starter Dome
1. Dorm-Style First, Personal Domes Later In the early stages of development, dormitory-style shared housing will be prioritized. These structures will house several residents at once and serve as essential transitional living quarters during our formative build-out years. As our skills, tools, and available resources improve, we will begin constructing private or semi-private dome homes, built to higher standards of comfort, aesthetics, and longevity. 2. Progressive Housing Access Based on Residency Tenure To ensure fairness in housing opportunities, we maintain a voluntary waitlist system based on length of continuous full-time residency. The longest-tenured full-time resident is always first in line for any newly constructed or upgraded dome housing. When a new dome becomes available, the option to move in is offered first to the longest-term resident, continuing down the list to the newest member. If a resident chooses not to move, the opportunity simply passes to the next eligible person. Residents who pass on a housing opportunity do not lose their place in line—they are still first in line for the next available dome unless a policy update specifies otherwise. 3. Benefits of Housing Rotation This system encourages: Long-term commitment by offering tangible improvements to living conditions over time. Efficient use of older domes, which can then be reassigned to new residents. Reduced pressure on initial infrastructure by creating an organic turnover of space as community experience and capabilities evolve. 4. Resident Autonomy & Voluntary Participation Participation in the move-up process is completely voluntary. We recognize that some residents may prefer to stay in familiar or social living spaces, and that’s valid. No one will be compelled to move. However, opting into newer housing may come with expectations of: Participating in its construction or customization. Taking on new responsibilities, such as hosting workshops, sharing amenities, or maintaining communal facilities. 5. Dome Customization & Ownership In time, residents who remain long-term may be invited to co-design or lead the build of their personalized dome homes through organized workshops. These may involve: Cooperative labor from the community. Material cost-sharing agreements. Potential future rights or agreements around long-term usage of the dome (TBD as part of our developing housing and land use charter). Notes: This policy is subject to revision by community consensus and cooperative board approval as the scale of our operations increases and needs evolve. Exceptions or special circumstances (families, accessibility, leadership roles) may be considered and fairly reviewed.
Ecological Principles
Becoming an Eco-Village
At Happy Castle, it is not just our goal to live a fulfilling, economically secure lifestyle by promoting community and communally pooling resources. We also strive to live self-sufficiently within the bounds of our camp and ecologically conducive in regards to the environment around us. A central mission as Happy Castle is to inspire the rest of the world to take seriously the possibility of living in harmony with nature in one of the driest environments on Earth. Find our guiding Ecological Principles below.
Happy Castle will attempt to establish itself as a net-negative carbon impact on the planet. Infrastructure onsite should seek to establish permanence, to minimize inefficiencies, irresponsible use of resources and value self-sufficiency in energy, water, and food production. All water consumed onsite should be collected onsite in a sustainable and replenishable way that does not deplete natural sources. Wherever possible, previously collected water should be conserved, reused, and expended only through its most productive uses. All gardening, agriculture, and horticulture, onsite will seek self-sufficiency by designing around permaculture, hydroponic and aquaponic systems that conserve water and maximize yield. Happy Castle will design the landscape, including roads, buildings, plants, and art-installations in ways that seek to minimize negative effects on undeveloped areas and enhance those which are developed. While we accept there will be a human impact on the land in pursuit of our larger vision, we should strive to integrate our activities in ways that complement and enhance the natural landscape and its inhabitants such as rainwater retention to rejuvenate the land, soil regeneration and the planting and nurturing of native species. Happy Castle will strive to minimize waste by choosing high-quality products that are designed for permanence and durability, avoiding those which are not. Similarly, we will seek products which are ethically and sustainably produced. We recognize that some essential products meeting these specifications may be cost-prohibitive or otherwise difficult to acquire within our consumerist-culture and accept that compromises may occasionally be necessary in service of the larger mission. Happy Castle will seek ways to reuse waste products wherever possible, including through composting and repurposing. Happy Castle will promote the use of sustainable building methods by offering courses in sustainable building to the public, contracting out our expertise to regional builders, and engaging politically to advocate for expanded access and education in sustainable building. All electricity consumed onsite should be generated through renewable means, such as solar and wind. We’ll strive to build the totality of our energy production onsite, ensuring independence and self-sufficiency. Additionally, we’ll aim to produce excess energy for exportation offsite.
Eco-Architecture and Sustainable Construction
Environmental Policy for Buildings at Happy Castle
In general, Happy Castle aims to build structures using sustainable architecture and building methods while implementing design choices that fosters maximum community interactions like public spaces, common-buildings and central resources. This policy outlines the guidelines and principles for construction at Happy Castle, ensuring that all structures align with our vision of self-reliance, sustainability, community, and environmental stewardship.
1. Construction Principles All building projects must adhere to the following principles: Sustainable Practices: Emphasize the use of sustainable materials and methods that minimize environmental impact. Preferred construction techniques include Earthbag, Superadobe, Hyperadobe, and other eco-friendly systems. Integration with Nature: Structures should harmonize with the surrounding desert landscape, preserving natural features and minimizing disruption to the ecosystem. Building with earth will inevitably have an environmental impact, but we should be mindful to minimize the effect to areas being developed. Community Focus: Buildings must serve the communal needs of Happy Castle, promoting collaboration, interaction, and shared experiences among members. The built environment and layout is incredibly important to overall social cohesion and interaction. We will design around village principles that encourage both community and resource efficiency. 2. Design Guidelines All proposed structures must comply with the following design criteria: Aesthetic Cohesion: Buildings should reflect the artistic and communal spirit of Happy Castle. Unique architectural styles are encouraged, but they must maintain a cohesive aesthetic with existing structures. Functional Spaces: Designs should prioritize multifunctionality to accommodate various activities (e.g., workshops, gatherings, art installations) and foster community engagement. As the community grows, it's likely that some buildings will eventually have their initial use retired as facilities are upgraded. Buildings should always be built with the future of the community in mind. Durability: Structures should be designed for longevity, utilizing materials and techniques that withstand the local climate while minimizing maintenance needs. We prefer Earthbags and Superadobe for their particular resilience, but cement and concrete may be considered for unique cases. 3. Approval Process To maintain a cohesive vision, all construction projects must undergo an approval process: Proposal Submission: Members must submit detailed plans and designs for any new construction or significant renovations to the Camp Land Plan committee. We encourage all members that desire a personal residence to see to its construction as labor and resources become available. Community Input: Proposed projects will be presented to the community for feedback. Input from members is encouraged to ensure transparency and collective decision-making. Proposed projects can be accepted, rejected, or requested to be modified by the community before resubmission. Final Approval: The committee will review proposals based on alignment with the building policy and community feedback before granting final approval. 4. Modifications and Maintenance Ongoing maintenance and modifications to existing structures should adhere to the same principles outlined in this policy. Members must seek approval for significant alterations, particularly to common-spaces, to ensure they remain in line with community values and aesthetics. However, we encourage radical self-expression when it comes to personal style regarding paint and furnishings. 5. Policy Review This building policy will be reviewed regularly to adapt to the evolving needs of the community and to incorporate new sustainable practices as they emerge.
Conflict Resolution
Keeping the Peace
As most of us know, the most challenging aspect of living together with other people is resolving conflicts. Mostly, these will be limited to minor interpersonal conflicts between members, but can also include major conflicts involving legal action. As members, we all have a responsibility to contribute the harmony and cooperative spirit of Happy Castle. This policy provides a framework for addressing and resolving conflicts within the Happy Castle community in a constructive and respectful manner while fostering understanding and cooperation among members.
1. Commitment to Peaceful Resolution All members are encouraged to approach conflicts with a mindset of collaboration, compassion, and understanding. The goal is to resolve issues amicably, maintaining harmony and respect within the community. As members of a revolutionary community such as ours, we have a much higher responsibility to building and maintaining healthy relationships with our neighbors than does the typical person. We have a duty to learn and implement effective communication skills to a degree that is perhaps unfamiliar to us. This often means challenging our own preconceptions and behaviors. 2. Steps for Conflict Resolution Step 1: Direct Communication Initial Discussion: Members involved in a conflict should first engage in a direct conversation to express their perspectives and feelings. This should be done privately and respectfully, with a focus on understanding each other’s viewpoints. Many conflicts arise from miscommunication or feelings of invalidation. Oftentimes, just simply trying to understand the other person's issue and be sensitive to their emotions is enough to resolve the issue. Active Listening: Each party should practice active listening, allowing the other to speak without interruption and seeking to understand their position. The goal of the conversation should be to resolve their conflict, not make things worse. Step 2: Mediation If the conflict cannot be resolved through direct communication, the parties may request mediation from a designated mediator (or a small group of trusted members). This should be a member both parties agree to have function as mediator. Mediation Process: The mediator will facilitate a discussion, guiding both parties to express their concerns and work toward a mutually agreeable solution. This process should prioritize empathy, respect, and confidentiality. Step 3: Community Involvement If mediation fails, the issue may be brought to the larger community for input. A gathering will be called where members can discuss the conflict and provide feedback. Decision-Making: The community will collectively discuss possible resolutions, aiming for a consensus that respects the needs and feelings of all involved. 3. Documentation All conflicts and their resolutions will be documented to ensure transparency and to identify patterns that may require further community discussion or policy adjustments. For example, if numerous residents individually complain that their neighbor is too loud, then that would call to attention a bigger issue. 4. Commitment to Growth Conflicts are viewed as opportunities for growth and learning. All members are encouraged to reflect on their experiences and share insights that could benefit the community as a whole. For many of us, living in this close-knit of a community is unlike anything we've ever experienced. There will almost certainly be an adjustment period as you learn new interpersonal skills and how to navigate group dynamics . 5. Policy Review This conflict resolution policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure its effectiveness and to adapt to the evolving dynamics of the community.
Onsite Business Policy
Starting, Owning, and Operating Businesses Enterprises Onsite
Happy Castle is a community of artists and entrepreneurs. We value the creativity and determination of our members in building Happy Castle Art Camp into a profitable and growing business. As such, we encourage brainstroming and implementation of new ideas to help realize this goal. At the same time, a major aspect of Happy Castle's mission is to increase the potential of every member living onsite by freeing them from redundant toil by combining resources, and dividing labor.
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We aim to provide our members
Artist Revenue
split
Policy
Passive Income for Artists Contributing to the Campground
At Happy Castle, we believe art should be more than decoration—it should enhance the visitor experience, spark curiosity, and transform the campground into an immersive landscape. To honor the contributions of artists and incentivize the creation of permanent installations, we’ve designed a revenue-sharing model that allows artists to earn passive income from their work.
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The Artist Revenue Split Policy is designed to reward creativity and inspire large-scale, interactive works that enrich the Happy Castle experience. By giving artists a stake in our campground’s success, we aim to create a vibrant, evolving environment where art, nature, and community thrive together.
1. Revenue Distribution Model Each district of the campground is an artistic ecosystem, blending campsites with large-scale art installations. Artists whose permanent works reside in a district are entitled to a share of that district’s campsite revenue, based on the following formula: Artist Share = (50% of Total District Campsite Revenue) ÷ (Number of Art Installations in the District) 50% of all campsite revenue for each district is allocated to a shared artist pool. This pool is evenly divided among the artists with permanent installations in that district. Artists receiving Art Grants from Happy Castle may have their share assessed differently, observing the Village’s contribution. Any changes to their Revenue Distribution Model will be negotiated and agreed to prior to construction. Particularly large or impactful art installations may be assessed as multiple installations. 2. Eligibility for Revenue Sharing To qualify for a share of campsite revenue, the artist must meet the following criteria: The art must be a permanent, site-specific installation that remains in place year-round. The installation must be approved by the Art Pod for its contribution to the overall experience and alignment with Happy Castle’s values. The artist must agree to maintain the installation for a minimum period of one year, ensuring it remains safe, functional, and visually engaging. 3. Ongoing Maintenance and Responsibility We encourage art installations that are durable and long lasting. The desert sun can degrade certain materials overtime, so we’ll prioritize art using environmentally sustainable materials or those which incorporate expected long term aging into its aesthetic. If an installation falls into disrepair or no longer meets safety standards, the artist’s revenue share may be suspended until repairs are made. 4. Revenue Payment Schedule Artist revenue shares are calculated and paid quarterly, based on actual campsite income for each district. Revenue reports will be shared transparently with participating artists, ensuring fairness and clarity in the distribution process. 5. Adding New Installations As new art is added to a district, the number of eligible installations will increase, thus adjusting the individual share for each artist. Artists are encouraged to collaborate and plan thoughtfully when contributing new works to balance revenue potential and district enhancement. Particularly large-scale, expensive, impactful, or complex art installations may be assessed as multiple installations for the purpose of revenue sharing. 6. Termination or Relocation of Art If an artist chooses to remove their installation or relocate it to another district, they forfeit their revenue share for that district. Revenue sharing for the new district will be recalculated based on the number of existing installations. Happy Castle may choose to remove or relocate art at their discretion, possibly altering the artist's revenue share. Our long term Land Plans identify areas specifically designated to structures, roads, and art, but these plans are potentially subject to change. If your art is removed, Happy Castle will shoulder the cost of deconstruction and transportation. 7. Ending Your Relationship with Happy Castle An artist is welcome to remove their art from the Happy Castle Campground at any time and without reason. However, they are responsible for the costs associated with deconstruction and transportation. They are also expected to leave the site in a reasonably undisturbed condition.
FinancialPolicy
How Do Members Make Money?
This policy outlines the financial structure of the commune that ensures fair compensation for members, promotes long-term financial responsibility, and fosters a sustainable environment at Happy Castle. Happy Castle is an income-sharing commune designed to offer an alternative to capitalist-consumerist based economic models of social organization. So while we will pursue a number of income-generating enterprises onsite and strive to operate these businesses efficiently, revenue will be collectively allocated by the community at large.
1. Daily Stipend for Members All members living and working onsite will receive a daily stipend. This stipend is intended to cover basic living expenses, ensuring that members can focus on their contributions to the commune without the burden of significant financial stress. While the stipend will not be extravagant, it is designed to allow members to save over time and maintain a low-cost lifestyle. 2. Income from Personal Pursuits Members are encouraged to engage in personal creative or entrepreneurial activities (e.g., vlogging, art, crafts). However, any income generated from these activities while living onsite is subject to the following income-sharing agreement: 60% of income generated from personal pursuits will be surrendered to the commune treasury. This policy recognizes the value of the resources, tools, and community connections available to members living at Happy Castle, which significantly enhance their ability to create and thrive. 3. Common Treasury In addition to the income-sharing agreement, a more substantial portion of all revenue generated—whether from member contributions, workshops, or community events—will be directed into a common treasury. This treasury will fund various Camp Improvement Projects agreed upon by the community. Decisions regarding allocations from the common treasury will be made collectively, ensuring that funds are used to enhance the communal living experience by building additional infrastructure or reinvesting in it's businesses. 4. Guiding Principles This financial structure promotes the long-term health of Happy Castle by: Creating a Sense of Shared Stake: By contributing to the common treasury, members invest in the infrastructure and resources that benefit everyone, fostering a sense of shared ownership and collaboration. This ensures that all aspects of the camp are equally valued and appropriately weighted in decision-making about resource allocation as opposed to only those areas that generate significant income. Sustaining Community Growth: Funds dedicated to improvement projects help maintain and enhance communal spaces and improve self-reliance, ensuring that Happy Castle remains a vibrant and functional environment that promotes sustainability, community and personal growth. Encouraging Collective Responsibility: The income-sharing agreement emphasizes that while personal pursuits are valuable, they contribute to a larger communal context that supports and nurtures all members. We want our members to collaborate on diverse projects that contribute to the commune's success and aim to provide the resources to allow every member to pursue their highest potential, but part of that is the communal pooling of our individual strengths and abilities. 5. Review and Adjustments This policy will be reviewed periodically to adapt to the needs and dynamics of the community, ensuring that it remains fair and effective. Any changes will need to be agreed upon and accepted by the entire community before being adopted.
Membership Fees
Does Joining the Commune Cost Money?
At present, Happy Castle does not require a membership fee to join or live onsite. We understand that as a start-up community, financial accessibility is crucial to fostering a diverse and creative environment. Our focus is on shared labor, communal contributions, and collective growth rather than financial barriers.
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​However, as Happy Castle grows and our needs evolve, it’s possible that we may implement a membership fee in the future to support our expanding infrastructure, festival production costs, or other necessary developments.
If a fee becomes necessary, it will be designed to reflect our values of accessibility and fairness, with transparent discussions among members to determine its structure. Any changes will be communicated well in advance, ensuring that all members are given the opportunity to engage in this process. By joining Happy Castle now, you’re part of our formative journey, contributing not only your time and energy but helping to shape the future of our community, including any decisions around financial contributions.
PetPolicy
Pets and Animals at Happy Castle
At Happy Castle, we aim to maintain a balanced and harmonious environment for all members—human, animal, and otherwise. While pets can bring joy and companionship, they also come with significant responsibilities. Our pet policy is designed to ensure that the presence of animals aligns with our communal values, promotes ecological harmony, and avoids placing an undue burden on the community.
1. Personal Pets We strongly discourage members from acquiring new personal pets while living onsite. However, prospective members with existing pets may be considered for membership on a case-by-case basis, with the following considerations: The pet must be well-behaved, non-aggressive, and suitable for communal living. The prospective member must demonstrate that they can meet the pet’s needs without relying on other community members for regular care. The pet must not pose a risk to Happy Castle’s wildlife, livestock, or other community animals. Approval of personal pets will require input from the Membership Pod and may involve a trial period. 2. Personal Pet Responsibilities Full responsibility for a personal pet’s care, feeding, and behavior falls on the pet owner. Time spent on personal pet care does not count toward labor requirements. Members with personal pets must ensure they do not disrupt communal spaces, events, or other members' lives. 3. Community Pets Happy Castle will have community pets that belong to everyone and are considered an integral part of the community. These animals serve as companions, workers (in the case of farm animals), or symbols of our collective lifestyle. Care for community pets is a shared responsibility, with tasks rotating among members as part of regular labor assignments. Decisions regarding the acquisition of new community pets must be proposed and discussed at a Community Meeting and require majority approval. 4. Adding a New Community Pet To propose a new community pet, members must present a plan that includes: Purpose and role of the proposed animal (e.g., companion, farm worker, pest control). Care requirements, including feeding, housing, and veterinary needs. Estimated costs and how they will be covered. Impact on existing animals and the overall community. 5. Pet Behavior and Safety Any pet, personal or community, that exhibits aggressive or disruptive behavior may be subject to evaluation. In extreme cases, the community may decide that an animal needs to be removed for the safety and well-being of others. 6. Respect for the Land and Wildlife Happy Castle is deeply connected to its surrounding ecosystem. All pets—community or personal—must be managed in a way that respects local wildlife and minimizes ecological disruption.
Paid Time Off Policy
Rest, Relax, and Retreat
The Happy Castle Paid Time Off policy is designed to support the health, well-being, and long-term success of our members. We recognize that building a thriving off-grid community isn’t just about hard work—it’s about achieving balance. This policy provides members with the opportunity to rest, grow, and pursue personal projects while ensuring that community operations remain sustainable.
1. PTO Accrual Members accrue PTO at a rate of 1 hours for every 10 hours worked, with the cash-out value based on the daily stipend at the time of accrual. PTO accrual increases over time: Year 1: 4 hours per 40 hours worked (standard rate) Year 2: 4.5 hours per 40 hours worked Year 3: 5 hours per 40 hours worked Year 4: 5.5 hours per 40 hours worked Year 5: 6 hours per 40 hours worked Members with long-term membership may earn more than 10 hours of PTO per 40 hours worked. 2. PTO Usage PTO may be used for personal travel, rest, creative projects, family matters, sabbaticals, or emergencies. PTO can be gifted or swapped with other members who need time off. Members may submit a time-off request to their Camp or Pod coordinator to ensure community needs are met during their absence. 3. Rollover and No Cap PTO rolls over annually without any cap—members can save it for long-term use or as a personal financial safety net. Accumulated PTO can be used for: Extended sabbaticals Transition stipends for members leaving Happy Castle Retirement savings 4. PTO Cash-Out PTO retains its original value at the time of accrual. This ensures members receive consistent compensation without incentivizing long-term stockpiling for higher payouts. Members leaving Happy Castle in good standing may cash out their remaining PTO. 5. Coordination and Approval PTO requests must be coordinated within each Camp or Pod to ensure adequate coverage of responsibilities. Approval is based on community needs, but every effort will be made to accommodate individual plans and emergencies. Members are responsible for ensuring that tasks are covered during their absence by working with team members and arranging temporary coverage. 6. Flexibility and Community Support Happy Castle’s PTO policy emphasizes flexibility and mutual support. Members are encouraged to use PTO to recharge, explore new ideas, or handle life’s challenges. Whether you take time off to rest, travel, or transition to a new project, the community is here to support your journey.
Child
Family Policy
Members with Children
Happy Castle is a community built on shared values of sustainability, creativity, and mutual support. We welcome prospective members with families and recognize the unique challenges and joys of raising children. This policy establishes guidelines to ensure a harmonious balance between individual family needs and the broader responsibilities of community life.
1. Parental Responsibility Primary Responsibility: Parents and guardians are fully responsible for the care, supervision, and upbringing of their children. While Happy Castle fosters a supportive environment, child-rearing is not a shared community responsibility. Childcare and Labor Requirements: Time spent on childcare is not credited toward the community’s weekly labor requirements. Parents are expected to fulfill their full labor obligations in addition to managing their family responsibilities. 2. Labor and Participation All adult members, including parents, must contribute their required labor hours each week. Parents are encouraged to coordinate with their Camp or Pod to create flexible schedules that balance family and community obligations. Childcare services (such as cooperative babysitting arrangements) may be developed by interested members, but these are voluntary and separate from official community labor roles. 3. Children and Stipends Non-working children do not receive a stipend. Stipends are reserved for active, working members contributing to the community’s labor system. Older children who wish to participate in community labor may be eligible for a stipend once they reach an appropriate age and meet community labor expectations, as determined by their Camp or Pod. 4. Community Life and Inclusion Children are welcome to participate in the communal life of Happy Castle, including festivals, workshops, and daily activities. Parents are expected to ensure that their children’s behavior is respectful of shared spaces and that their presence does not interfere with community operations or others’ well-being. While the community is not responsible for providing formal education, homeschooling and alternative learning models are supported, provided they do not conflict with community work expectations. 5. Housing and Living Arrangements Housing allocations for families will be based on availability and community resources. Parents with children may receive priority for larger living spaces, but all accommodations must align with community policies. Families are responsible for any additional expenses related to raising children (e.g., education materials, medical care, food outside of what the community provides). 6. Flexibility and Long-Term Planning Happy Castle acknowledges that raising children requires flexibility. We are committed to working with families to find solutions that honor both individual needs and community goals. Parents are encouraged to participate in long-term community planning and family-focused initiatives, ensuring that Happy Castle remains an inclusive space for all generations.
Expulsion Policy
Leaving the Commune
At Happy Castle, we believe in fostering an inclusive, cooperative, and respectful environment where all members contribute to the well-being of the community. However, to ensure the health, safety, and harmony of the commune, there are certain behaviors and actions that are unacceptable. In cases where a member repeatedly violates our communal principles, rules, or responsibilities, the following expulsion policy outlines the process for removing that member from the community.
1. Grounds for Expulsion A member may be subject to expulsion for the following reasons: Repeated Violation of Commune Rules: Failure to adhere to the rules or policies set forth by the commune, including disrespect for shared spaces, disregard for ecological practices, or misuse of communal resources. Non-Participation: Failure to fulfill labor obligations, financial contributions, or cooperative work duties as outlined in membership agreements. Endangering Others: Any behavior that threatens the safety, health, or well-being of other members, including but not limited to acts of violence, theft, harassment, substance abuse, or serious negligence. Disrespect for the Community: Persistent disruptive behavior, refusal to engage in constructive conflict resolution, or actions that significantly undermine the cooperative spirit of Happy Castle. Criminal Activity: Engagement in illegal activity that endangers the commune or its members, or brings disrepute to Happy Castle. 2. Expulsion Process Expulsion is considered a serious step and will only be taken after due process. The following steps outline the expulsion process: Step 1: Informal Resolution When a violation or concern arises, the member will be given an opportunity to resolve the issue informally through open communication. This can include mediation with a conflict resolution team or direct dialogue with other members affected by the behavior. The goal is to understand the issue, clarify expectations, and work toward a resolution without formal intervention. Step 2: Formal Warning If the issue is not resolved informally or if the behavior persists, the member will receive a formal written warning. This warning will outline the specific behaviors or actions that need to change and provide a clear set of expectations for improvement, including a timeline for review. The warning will be discussed with the commune’s governing council or decision-making body, and the member will be given a chance to respond and explain their side of the situation. Step 3: Probationary Period If the behavior continues, the member may be placed on probation. This will be a defined period (e.g., 30 to 60 days) during which the member must demonstrate a commitment to improving their behavior or participation. During probation, the member’s actions will be closely monitored by the governing council, and they will be given resources or support to meet the communal expectations (e.g., conflict mediation, role reassignment, or skill-building). Step 4: Community Vote If the member fails to meet the conditions of the probationary period or engages in severe violations that warrant immediate action, the commune will initiate a vote on expulsion. A quorum of at least 75% of the voting members of the commune must be present for the vote, and a two-thirds (⅔) majority must be reached in favor of expulsion for the member to be officially removed. 3. Immediate Expulsion In cases where a member engages in behavior that poses an immediate danger to the safety, security, or well-being of the community, the governing council or decision-making body has the authority to enact immediate expulsion without following the above steps. Examples of such behavior include physical violence, sexual assault, theft of communal property, or severe damage to commune infrastructure. In the case of immediate expulsion, the member will be required to leave the commune premises immediately, and a formal expulsion vote will be held afterward to ratify the decision. 4. Post-Expulsion Protocol Once a member has been expelled, they will be given a reasonable timeframe (typically 7 to 14 days) to vacate their living space and remove their personal belongings from the commune, unless immediate removal is required for safety reasons. The expelled member will no longer have access to communal facilities or events, and any future return to the commune grounds will require permission from the governing council. If necessary, legal action may be taken to enforce expulsion. 5. Appeals Process Expelled members have the right to appeal the decision within 30 days of the expulsion vote. The appeal must be submitted in writing to the governing council, outlining the reasons why the expulsion should be reconsidered. The governing council will review the appeal and, if necessary, call for another vote by the community. 6. Reinstatement After Expulsion Reinstatement of an expelled member is a rare occurrence and will require the approval of both the governing council and a two-thirds (⅔) majority vote by the community. The expelled member must demonstrate a commitment to the commune’s principles and provide evidence of change or reconciliation before being considered for readmission. This expulsion policy reflects our commitment to fairness, open communication, and the well-being of Happy Castle. By maintaining clear procedures for conflict resolution and expulsion, we aim to protect our communal values and foster a healthy, harmonious environment for all members.