SULTAN — A planned four-day event north of here, filled with bass-beating techno music and all-night light displays during the Fourth of July holiday, has sparked ire from nearby residents, concern from law enforcement and a permit review from Snohomish County planning officials.

"Stompin In Da Woods 3," scheduled for July 1-4, could bring as many as 500 people to the 320-acre Lake Bronson Park, known for its nudist-camp facilities. Internet advertising calls for more than 80 disc jockeys sharing thousands of watts of music running continually on three stages during the event.

While posters advise people against bringing drugs, local police, who will beef up patrols that weekend, say such events are magnets for Ecstasy, a popular drug with some people who frequent dance clubs.

But organizers say they're being unfairly targeted and aren't sure what the fuss is about. They've held the same event before in the Puget Sound area. Another multi-day event at the nudist camp the weekend before "Stompin In Da Woods 3" has drawn no criticism, said Scott Hanson, the event's organizer.

Called "Critical Massive," it's a spinoff in the tradition of "Burning Man," a Nevada festival that brings together people and fire in the name of art.

"That seems much more dangerous to me," Hanson said.

Hanson promises 20 security officials and up to 80 more staffers at the festival, where people will pay $30 to participate for the four days. Staff will inspect vehicles and bags for illegal narcotics, alcohol in the possession of minors and glass bottles — none of which will be allowed. Nudity, however, is optional.

County planning officials say all of that is fine, but what they want to see is a public-event permit, which Hanson doesn't have. He says he was told by the park's owners that all permits already had been acquired.

Owners of the nudist camp confirm they have a contract with Hanson, but they've told county officials they feel they've been misled by him in regard to what will go on during the event. Owners would not comment yesterday, except to say they're waiting for the county's permit decision, which could be made by week's end.

"We're not trying to shut this down," said Jennifer Holder, a legislative assistant for County Councilman Jeff Sax, who has fielded complaints. The Sultan area is part of Sax's district.

But police say they wouldn't mind if the event were canceled. The July 4 weekend already is a busy time without 500 more people traveling to Sultan, said Sultan Police Chief Fred Walser. Walser and sheriff's officials are discussing how to handle the influx of people and possibly crime. "This kind of thing only brings sex, drugs and alcohol," Walser said. "We don't need it."

For Hanson, who put on the same event last year near Mount Rainier National Park and in 2003 near Mount Vernon, it's an unfortunate predicament.

"This is not a rave with all the drugs and stuff," he said. "It started out as a way for a bunch of DJs to combine the things they love: music and camping."

Christopher Schwarzen: 425-783-0577