Agricultural zoning

Agricultural zoning refers to the designation of specific land areas by local governments for agriculture or related activities. This practice is a form of land use planning used by municipalities to control the growth and development of their communities.

Overview

Agricultural zoning is a tool used by local governments to protect and preserve farmland and other agricultural resources. It is often used in areas where urban sprawl or other non-agricultural development threatens the viability of local farms. By designating specific areas for agricultural use, municipalities can ensure that these lands are not developed for non-agricultural purposes.

Purpose

The primary purpose of agricultural zoning is to protect agricultural lands from encroachment by non-agricultural uses. This is achieved by restricting the types of activities that can take place on lands zoned for agriculture. In addition to protecting farmland, agricultural zoning can also help to preserve rural character, protect natural resources, and support local food production.

Types of Agricultural Zoning

There are several types of agricultural zoning, including:

• Exclusive Agricultural Zoning: This is the strictest form of agricultural zoning, where only agricultural uses are permitted.
• Non-Exclusive Agricultural Zoning: This allows for some non-agricultural uses, such as residential or commercial, but these uses are typically subject to certain restrictions.
• Agricultural Protection Zoning: This type of zoning is designed to protect agricultural activities from complaints by non-farming neighbors. It often includes "right to farm" provisions that protect farmers from nuisance lawsuits.

Criticisms

While agricultural zoning is widely used and generally accepted as a necessary tool for protecting farmland, it is not without its critics. Some argue that it restricts property rights, while others believe it can lead to inefficient land use. There is also concern that agricultural zoning can contribute to sprawl by pushing non-agricultural development into areas that are not zoned for agriculture.

See Also

• Zoning
• Urban planning
• Rural development
• Land use