Salt Spring Island Local Trust Committee Land Use Bylaw No. 355

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Food Sales, Access & Procurement

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, ALR, farm retail/farm gate sales, food processing, home occupation/home based businesses, roads in agricultural land, zoning

Region: Islands Trust | Document Type: Zoning Bylaw | Year: consolidated 2015

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Topic Sub-Topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
economic development;

agri-tourism;

ALR:

Bed and Breakfast home-based businesses are subject to the following additional conditions:

(1) Not more than 1 bed and breakfast home-based business is permitted on any lot. BL461 (05/13)

(2) Despite Subsection 3.13.1, all bedrooms used to accommodate guests must be located only within a principal dwelling unit or within a seasonal cottage, if one is permitted on the lot.

(3) Not more than 3 bedrooms may be used to accommodate guests on lots that are 1.2 ha or less in area; not more than 4 bedrooms may be used to accommodate guests on lots that are greater than 1.2 ha in area.

(4) Despite Subsection 3.13.2, the total floor area dedicated primarily to the accommodation of guests on any lot, including bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms, closets and common areas, is not to exceed 50 per cent of the total floor area of the single-family dwelling and seasonal cottage on the lot, up to a maximum of 100 square metres. Information Note: Under a General Order of the Land Reserve Commission, bed and breakfast home-based businesses within the ALR are restricted to three bedrooms that must be fully contained within a singlefamily dwelling. The use of further bedrooms will require an application to the Commission and its written approval. Salt Spring Island Local Trust Committee 33 July 2015 Land Use Bylaw No. 355 (Consolidated)

(5) Breakfast meals only may be provided to bed and breakfast guests who have been provided with overnight accommodation.

(6) Off-street parking for bed and breakfast home-based business uses must be supplied as outlined in Part 7 and screened from view from abutting lots, highways or parks by a landscape screen.

(7) Despite Section 6.1, signs for bed and breakfast home-based businesses may be indirectly illuminated by a non-flashing light source, external to the sign. Where illumination is provided, it must consist of a maximum 150 watt PAR lamp mounted between 1 and 1.5 meters from each sign face.

 3.13.7-3.13.8
development and productive use of agricultural land;

roads in agricultural land;

ALR;

 Highways are not to be provided in a manner that results in a physical division of land in the Parks and Reserves 6 or Parks and Reserves 7 zones; or in a manner such that a farm operation would be interrupted in the Agriculture 1 or Agriculture 2 zone, or a forestry operation would be interrupted in the Forestry 1 or Forestry 2 zone. 5.15.2

development and productive use of agricultural land;

processing, storage and distribution;

economic development;

food sales, access and procurement;

food processing;

farm retail/gate sales;

agri-tourism;

home occupation/home based business;

ALR;

 See document for related accessory use regulations in Agricultural Zones. 9.1.1
development and productive use of agricultural land;

siting and coverage;

ALR

 See document for siting and coverage in Agricultural Zones 9.1.2

 

City of Surrey Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 18020

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, Education, Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Land Access, Nutrition and Public Health, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Urban - Agriculture Conflict & Edge Planning, Urban Agriculture, Waste Management, Water Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, agricultural impact assessment, agricultural industry services, ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, BC environmental farm plan, buffer at agricultural edge, climate change and greenhouse gases, community food system education, community kitchen, crops, disclosure agreement, farm diversification, farm incubator, farm retail/farm gate sales, farm traffic, farmer training, farmers' markets, food distribution, food policy council, food processing, grocery stores, irrigation and drainage, leasing of land for agriculture, livestock, local food culture, new entrants to farming, nuisance complaints, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, pesticide and pest management, pilot project, pollinators, protection of farming development permit area, research and data collection, roads in agricultural land, soil, urban gardens/orchard, waste to energy, wildlife and ecosystem management

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2014

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Topic Sub-topic  Policy or Policy Excerpt Document location Language Rating
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 Maintain the integrity of the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) and its existing boundaries. E3.1;  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

soil;

ALR;

 Protect and support the continued designation and use of agricultural land for agricultural purposes regardless of soil types and capabilities. Encourage locating non-soil based agricultural structures on less productive soils, where feasible, in order to fully utilize prime soil resources.
 		 E3.3; *
development on agricultural land;   Encourage the continued use of farmland located outside of the ALR for agriculture purposes, subject to the development of an approved secondary plan. E3.4;  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 Avoid the fragmentation of ALR lands. Limit the subdivision of land within the ALR to greater than 4 ha (10 ac). Limit the subdivision of designated agriculture land outside the ALR to greater than 2 ha (5 ac). Encourage the amalgamation of lots in agricultural areas.
  		 E3.5; *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR;

agricultural impact assessment;

 Require 2 ha of land, within Surrey, of equivalent or better soil capacity, to be included into the ALR for each 1 ha of land excluded from the ALR with the submission of an Agricultural Impact Assessment detailing how this conversion provides a net benefit to agriculture in Surrey. E3.6; *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

roads in agricultural land;

ALR;

 Ensure that the potential fragmentation of agricultural lands by linear development such as new road construction, hydro corridors or pipeline or road upgrades, does not negatively impact the viability of farm operations or access to farm parcels.   E3.7; *
land access;

ALR;

leasing of land for agriculture;

 Maximize the productive utilization of agricultural land through such means as:
 Leasing City-owned ALR land to farmers
 Amending by-laws, policies and other regulations, as appropriate, to support agricultural production and innovation.
 		 E3.8; *
 

research and data collection;

 Support Surrey-based research and development of innovative production technologies and practices, such as ‘vertical farming’, roof-top farming and advanced irrigation and fertilization systems.
 		 E3.9;  

economic development;

food production;

farm diversification;

crops;

 Encourage the diversification of agricultural operations and the production of new crops and commodities, particularly high-value crops and those serving new markets with growth potential.
 		 E3.10;  
waste management; waste to energy; Encourage innovation in the management and recycling of agriculture and food waste, including waste-to-energy projects in the agri-food sector such as anaerobic digestions and other means of converting waste into a resource. E3.12; *
land access;

farm incubator;

new entrants to farming;

  Support programs that help new farmers overcome financial and other barriers to accessing land (includes but is not limited to incubator farms). E3.13; *
education;

community food system education;

farmer training;

 Work with local secondary and postsecondary institutions to support training and education programs in agriculture and food systems.
 		 E3.14;  
education;

research and data collection;

farmer training;

 Work with post-secondary institutions to facilitate agricultural research partnerships and technology transfer to local farmers.
 		 E3.15; *
education; local food culture; Support public awareness programs and events to highlight the importance of agriculture to Surrey’s economy. Showcase local producers and increase public awareness of farming practices.  E3.16; *
 

roads in agricultural land;

farm traffic;

 Ensure Surrey has a safe and convenient transportation network that supports agriculture, including access between farms and markets, farm vehicle travel routes and direct access between fields and farm operations.
 		 E3.17; *

water management; 

food processing, storage and distribution;

food production;

irrigation and drainage;

crops;

food processing;

livestock;

 Support land owners and senior levels of government to improve access to an adequate and safe water supply for agricultural operations such as livestock watering, crop irrigation, produce washing and food processing uses.
 		 E3.18; *
economic development; agricultural industry services; Support the development of ancillary agricultural services necessary for the viability of agricultural operations, in appropriate locations.
 		 E3.20;  

food processing, storage and distribution;

 

food processing;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Partner with senior levels of government, commodity groups and industry associations to maintain and grow the food packaging and processing industries in Surrey. E3.21;  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; nuisance complaints; Protect farming and agri-food operations from adjacent urban impacts such as traffic, flooding, nuisance complaints, trespassing and noxious substances.
 		 E3.22;  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

protection of farming development permit area;

buffer at agricultural edge;

ALR;

 Protect and enhance the interface between urban areas and the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) by using fencing, landscaping buffers and building separations between urban and agricultural lands, in accordance with DP4 of the Implementation Section of this OCP.
 		 E3.23; *

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

protection of farming development permit area;

buffer at agricultural edge;

ALR;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

Support density increases in areas adjacent to the ALR, as part of a comprehensively planned neighbourhood, where the required agricultural buffers are widened proportionally to the increase in density (see DP4 of the Implementation Section of this OCP), where cluster housing is used and where natural features such as watercourses, steep slopes, tree preservation, valuable ecosystems and sensitive soils are accommodated.

 E3.24; *

food sales, access and procurement;

farmers' markets;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

 

 Support the growth and development of farm markets and stands selling local products directly to consumers.
 		 E3.25;  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; buffer at agricultural edge; Carefully plan public areas and recreational trails in areas adjacent to farmland. Provide sufficient separation and physical barriers such as fencing, plantings and topographic features, to reduce conflicts between recreational uses and farming.
 		 E3.26; *
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; disclosure agreement; Use Agricultural Disclosure Agreements, at various stages of development, adjacent to agricultural areas to increase awareness of owners about the presence and implications of living near agricultural activity. E3.27; *
education;

local food culture;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising

 Raise public awareness and promote and celebrate local agriculture in Surrey through initiatives such as farm tours, media materials, community events, and by encouraging partnerships with producer associations and grocery stores to promote local farm products.
 		 E3.28; *

food sales, access and procurement;

economic development;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

agri-tourism;

 Explore agri-tourism opportunities for producers to diversify their farm operations, create an identifiable brand, and sell more products and services directly to consumers. E3.29; *
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

BC environmental farm plan;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 Encourage sound environmental agricultural and farm practices by working with farmers to participate in the Provincial Environmental Farm Plan program in order to promote clean and healthy air, water and soils.
 		 E3.30;  
waste management;   Encourage the management and recycling of manure and agricultural wastes in a sustainable manner. E3.31;  
wildlife/environmental/pest management; pollinators; Support programs and opportunities that help support pollinators and their valuable role in the continued viability of farming operations.
 		 E3.32;  
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Encourage Best Management Practices for riparian areas and streams in agricultural areas in order to support fish populations in accordance with the requirements of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) and the Provincial Water Act, as amended. E3.33;  
waste management;

pilot project;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

waste to energy;

 Explore opportunities related to recovering heat, generating clean energy and other resources and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by recycling food wastes and other organic materials through pilot projects and partnerships.  E3.34;  

food sales, access and procurement;

urban agriculture;

farmers' markets;

urban gardens/orchard;

 grocery stores;

community kitchen;

 Improve access to healthy and affordable food, particularly in lower-income neighbourhoods,through the planning and implementation of community gardens,farmer’s markets, urban agriculture projects,community kitchens, neighbourhood grocery stores and food assistance programs, as appropriate.
 		 F5.1; *
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

food policy council;

 Create a Food Policy Council and Surrey Food Charter to help develop formalized structures for tackling food security issues. Work in conjunction with the Agricultural and Food Security Advisory Committee. F5.2; *

food sales, access and procurement;

food processing, storage and distribution;

farmers' markets;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

 Encourage and support the development of local on-farm markets and urban farmer’s markets for local, direct food distribution in appropriate locations.
 		 F5.3; *
urban agriculture; urban gardens/orchard; Examine means of how to integrate locally supported agriculture (e.g. community gardens, community orchards, urban agriculture and small farms) into existing neighbourhoods and new areas of urban development.
 		 F5.4;  

urban agriculture;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

urban gardens/orchard;

pesticide and pest management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Partner with local neighbourhood associations, school districts and non-profit groups to encourage, organize, develop and manage community gardens, rooftop farming, fruit trees and other edible landscapes on public and private lands, in suitable urban locations while also using appropriate, integrated pest management practices.  F5.6; *
food sales, access and procurement;

farmers' markets;

food distribution;

urban gardens/orchard;

 grocery stores;

 Encourage mixed-use neighbourhood design and redevelopment to include small and mid-size grocery stores (e.g. 300—1,850 sq. m), seasonal farmer’s markets and open space for community gardens.
 		 F5.7; *

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

nutrition and public health;

food access, sales and procurement;

 partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Support the efforts and programs of Fraser Health and other non -governmental organizations that promote access to healthy nutritious foods.
 		 F5.8;  

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

nutrition and public health;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

research and data collection;;

 Assist non-profit agencies and public/private non-profit partnerships engaging in anti-hunger, nutrition and agriculture activities by sharing data for planning and by implementing and evaluating programs.
 		 F5.9;  
food access, sales and procurement;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Work with non-profit organizations such as food banks, food agencies, food gleaners, and food hamper supporters to ensure healthy food options are available to all residents of Surrey regardless of location or income level. F.10;  

 

District of Hope Zoning Bylaw No. 1324

Topic(s): Economic Development, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Urban Agriculture

Sub-topic(s): zoning, farm retail/farm gate sales, livestock, siting and coverage, agri-tourism, urban gardens/orchard

Region: Fraser Valley | Document Type: Zoning Bylaw | Year: consolidated 2012

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Topic Sub-Topic Policy of Policy Excerpt Document Location

urban agriculture;

 urban gardens/orchard;

COMMUNITY GARDEN

All community gardens shall be subject to the following conditions:

a) water supply shall be provided on the parcel;

b) total site coverage of all structures on a parcel for a community garden shall not exceed 10%;

c) a Community Activity sign is permitted in accordance with the District of Hope Sign Bylaw 35/96, as amended from time to time;

 8.4.1
food production; livestock;

.3 A hobby farm shall be limited to parcels with a minimum lot area of 0.8 hectares (2 acres) or larger;

.4 On a hobby farm the keeping of horses, sheep, goats, cattle or other animals of like kind is permitted in concentrations of three (3) animals or less per 2 acres;

.5 On a hobby farm the keeping of poultry is permitted in concentrations of six (6) birds or less per 0.25 acres;

 9.2.3.3-9.2.3.5
food sales, access and procurement; farm retail/gate sales .10 The retail area of accessory produce sales including buildings and outdoor areas shall not exceed 300 square meters (~3,228 square feet). 9.2.3.10
economic developmentl agri-tourism; .12 A bed and breakfast shall be limited to 3 sleeping units. 9.2.3.12
development and productive use of agricultural land; siting and coverage; See document for related siting and coverage regulations for Agricultural Zone. 9.2.5

 

Bowen Island Municipality Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 282, 2010 Schedule A – OCP Text

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Urban - Agriculture Conflict & Edge Planning, Urban Agriculture, Water Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, buffer at agricultural edge, climate change and greenhouse gases, deposit of fill and dumping, farm retail/farm gate sales, farmers' markets, farmland trust, home occupation/home based businesses, irrigation and drainage, leasing of land for agriculture, residential development, roads in agricultural land, soil, transfer of development potential, water restrictions and conservation, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: consolidated 2014

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Topic Sub-Topic Policy or Policy Exceprt Document Location Language Rating

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

food production;

 climate change and greenhouse gases; The Municipality will work with other agencies, stakeholders and the community to achieve emissions reductions targets and energy conservation goals. Specifically, the Municipality will: …support local food production as a factor in reducing food  transportation costs an greenhouse gas emissions... 31  
food production; ALR; Productive and domestic agricultural use is encouraged in areas  with agricultural capability; including the ALR as shown on  Schedules C and C – 1. Domestic agriculture is acceptable on any property. 209  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

Where land is in the ALR, a minimum parcel size will only apply  when that land is: • excluded from the ALR;

• approved for subdivision within the ALR pursuant to the  Agricultural Land Commission regulations or orders of the  Commission; and

• exempted by the Agricultural Land Commission regulations  or orders of the Commission.

 211 *
development and productive use of agricultural land; ALR exclusion; Any proposal for subdivision of agriculture designated lands outside the ALR will maintain arable units of land.  212 *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

transfer of development potential;

leasing of land for agriculture;

farmland trust;

The protection and use of land for agriculture is encouraged through:

• donation of agricultural lands to the Islands Trust Fund or  conservancy groups that would support agriculture;

• adoption of the Agricultural Land Commission Community  Planning Guidelines;

• formation of a non-profit society that acquires agricultural  lands;

• establishment of agriculture zoning regulations on lands suitable for productive agriculture;

• re-allocating density from agricultural lands to other non  agricultural lands;

• owners of agricultural lands actively farming, or leasing  /loaning their lands to persons that would undertake active  farming; and

• acquisition of lands for the community.

 213 *

development nad productive use of agricultural land;

economic development;

food sales, access and procurement;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

farmers' markets;

farm retail/gate sales;

home occupation/home based businesses;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

agri-tourism;

agricultural advisory committee;

agricultural-government liaising;

Agriculture will be supported on Bowen Island by:

• creating an Advisory Committee that reports to Council on agricultural related matters;

• encouraging a public market for sale of local food products;

• supporting the development of farmers’ outlets for the sale of  Bowen Island produced agricultural products;

• permitting roadside stands for farm gate sales of agricultural products;

• encouraging neighbourhoods and other groups to promote  and support local food production;

• encouraging community initiatives to promote local food production, food safety and sales;

• permitting Bed and Breakfast in agricultural areas and guest houses which feature a farm vacation and retreat centres that provide opportunities for guests to contribute to agricultural activity when permitted in accordance with tourist commercial land use management policies; and

• encouraging home based businesses that produce value added products from locally produced agricultural products. 

 214 *
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

pesticide and pest management;

 Organic farming or regenerative methods are encouraged through development of low impact farming. Operators of farms will be encouraged to avoid the use of pesticides and herbicides. If used, pesticides and herbicides will be applied in a manner that minimizes damage to adjoining and drainage areas. 215  
water managmenent;

water restrictions and conservation;

irrigation and drainage;

 Collection of rainwater for irrigation purposes is encouraged.  217  
development nad productive use of agricultural land

deposit of fill and dumping;

soil;

 Removal or deposit of soil from a parcel may be subject to  regulation by bylaw. 218  
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

soil;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 Production methods that maintain soil quality and minimize impacts on adjacent lands and the environment are encouraged. 219  
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

buffer at agricultural edge;

residential development;

 The use of fencing, hedges, and other buffers and the use of increased building setbacks on adjacent residential properties will be considered to allow for adequate separation between residential and agricultural land uses. 220  

development and productive use of agricultural land;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

roads in agricultural land;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 New roads should not fragment agricultural lands or areas of environmental sensitivity such as wetlands and wildlife migration corridors. 271  

development and productive use of agricultural land;

food production;

 

new entrants to farming;

 Existing farms and orchards should be protected, and new farms encouraged, especially to propagate a variety of heritage fruit trees, as a means to enhance rural and historic aspects of the island. 398  

 

 

 

Electoral Area D Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1135

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, Education, Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Land Access, Nutrition and Public Health, Urban - Agriculture Conflict & Edge Planning, Urban Agriculture, Waste Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, amenity density zoning/contributions, BC environmental farm plan, climate change and greenhouse gases, community food system education, community kitchen, composting, edible landscaping, farm retail/farm gate sales, farmland trust, food distribution, food processing, food storage, greenhouses, home occupation/home based businesses, leasing of land for agriculture, livestock, pesticide and pest management, protection of farming development permit area, residential development, urban gardens/orchard, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Squamish-Lillooet | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: consolidated 2016

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Topic Sub-topic  Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

Language Rating
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

BC environmental farm plan;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

As initial steps toward completing a comprehensive greenhouse gas
reduction strategy and ultimately reducing emissions, the following
elements are incorporated into this OCP...•Support for local agriculture...•.
Encourage the adoption  of Environmental  Farm plans & Whole Farm plans

 3.2.10;  
urban agriculture;  

Support the emergence of rural and planned communities with a
vibrant mix of uses combined with distributed renewable
power generation, agriculture, and green infrastructure.

 4.0.4;  

food processing, storage and distribution;

food access, sales and procurement;

urban agriculture;

food storage;

urban gardens/orchard;

amenity density zoning/contributions;

greenhouses;

community kitchen;

Support measures to ensure that all new development is designed 
with the ability to grow and store food,  including  the provision of 
community gardens, greenhouses or green roofs, and community kitchens. 

 4.0.8; *
food access, sales and procurement

amenity densityzoning/contributions; 

community kitchen;

residential development;

Support measures to ensure that shared facilities are provided in new 
multi family developments, such as meeting  and work space, and 
community kitchens/ovens in order to support food preservation.

 4.0.9; *
food processing, storage and distribution;

zoning;

food processing;

Support measures that are consistent with Agricultural Land Commission 
Regulations, to ensure that all local agricultural zoning bylaws allow for local 
processing of food to reduce transportation requirements. 

 4.0.10; *
education; community food system education;

Support initiatives to build capacity for local food production and will consider
working with member municipalities, non-profits, and the School Districts to 
provide food preservation education using publicly accessible facilities. 

 4.0.11; *
urban agriculture;

urban gardens/orchard; 

edible landscaping; 

 Support the planting of public streets with species that can provide nutrition 
or medicinal health benefits that are not necessarily attractive to bears. 		 4.0.12; *
food processing, storage and distribution;

zoning;

food processing; 

food storage;

 Encourage innovation with regard to land use and policies that support growing, 
processing, preserving, and storing food. 		 4.0.13; *
    Lands designated for agricultural use are indicated on Map 1. These lands shall be managed to retain their agricultural potential.    5.5.6; *
development and productive use of agricultural land; farmland trust;  The use of tools and approaches such as Agricultural Land or Farmland Trusts, and the Community Farms Program (administered by Farm Folk/City Folk in collaboration with The Land Conservancy of BC) is supported. 5.5.7;  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

ALR;

residential development;

 Consider regulating the siting and size of residential uses in the ALR, through the implementing bylaw. 5.5.9;  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 Subdivision and exclusion of land for non‐farm purposes from the Agricultural Land Reserve is discouraged. 5.5.10;  
development and productive use of agricultural land;   Paved and unpaved helipads and airstrips are discouraged on agricultural lands 5.5.12  
land access; leasing of land for agriculture;

The owners of agricultural lands are encouraged to facilitate the use of the land for agriculture by actively farming, leasing or loaning their lands to persons that would undertake active farming

 5.5.13  

economic development;

food sales, access and procurement;

farm retail/gate sales;

agri-tourism;

home occupation/home based business;

 The Board encourages economic diversification initiatives accessory to and compatible with farming that add value to locally produced farm products by:

 Supporting the development of farm outlets for the sale of local agricultural products;

 Permitting roadside stands for farm gate sales of agricultural products;

 Permitting bed and breakfasts in agricultural areas and guest houses/small scale agritourism operations that feature farm vacations and farming related activities;and,

 Supporting home occupations that produce value added products from locally produced agricultural products.

 5.5.14 *
economic development;

zoning;

residential development;

agri-tourism;

 Agritourism accommodation may be permitted by way of rezoning, and only to a maximum of 10 sleeping units per farm operation. 5.5.15; *
wildlife/pest/environmental management; wildlife and ecosystem management;

Farmers are encouraged to identify ecologically significant areas such as wetlands, abandoned watercourses and other sensitive areas, and avoid practices that would cause negative impacts to those areas

5.5.18

  
wildlife/pest/environmental management;

BC environmental farm plan;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

Farmers are encouraged to prepare Environmental Farm Plans to assess how they may operate in a manner that sustains farming as well as protects wildlife, protects against soil erosion and degradation, maintains water quality, and supports natural ecosystems.

 5.5.19  
wildlife/pest/environmental management;

pesticide and pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

The development of farms that follow organic and natural farming practices that do not rely on pesticides is supported.

 5.5.20  

food production;

food processing, storage and distribution;

food sales, access and procurement;

waste management;

education;

nutrition and public health;

urban agriculture;

development and productive use of agricultural land;

food distribution;

edible landscaping;

composting;

community kitchen;

farmland trust;

livestock;

 Food security should be supported through community gardens and agricultural land trusts, public edible landscaping, responsible composting and animal rearing, preservation and appropriate use of the Agriculture Land Reserve, support of local food growers and community kitchens, food distribution and cooking programs and food and nutrition education. 5.5.21; *
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning protection of farming development permit area; See document for guidelines for Protection of Farming Development Permit Area Guidelines. 7.7  

City of Abbotsford Zoning Bylaw No. 2400-2014 Agricultural Zone A1

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Waste Management

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, ALR, composting, farm retail/farm gate sales, farm worker accommodation, food processing, livestock, residential development, zoning

Region: Fraser Valley | Document Type: Zoning Bylaw | Year: consolidated 2014

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
development and productive use of agricultural land; siting and coverage; See document for siting and coverage regulations in Agricultural Zones. 210.3-210.4
development and productive use of agricultural land;

residential development;

ALR;

An Accessory Family Residential Use:

a. shall only be permitted on a lot with a minimum lot area of 3.8 ha;

b. shall only be permitted on lots in the Agricultural Land Reserve;

c. shall be located on a lot that is classified as “farm” under the B.C. Assessment Act;

d. shall be limited to one dwelling unit for such use per farm operation, provided the total number of dwelling units, excluding Accessory Seasonal Employee Residential Use Buildings, will not exceed two dwelling units per farm operation;

e. on a farm operation consisting of one lot, may be located on the same lot as a Single Detached Dwelling;

f. on a farm operation consisting of two or more lots, at least one of which is unoccupied and all of which are owned by the owner of the farm operation and managed as a farm operation, may be located on the same lot as a Single Detached Dwelling, subject to prior registration of a restrictive covenant in favour of the City against the titles of the unoccupied lot or lots and of the lot containing the two dwelling units agreeing that no dwelling unit shall be constructed on the unoccupied lot or lots while more than one dwelling unit remains on the other lot;

g. where permitted in the form of a manufactured home, shall be placed on a non-permanent foundation without Basement excavation;

h. shall not be contained within, or attached to, a Building or structure used for a Single Detached Dwelling;

i. shall only be permitted: i. where the owner of the farm operation is a resident on the same lot where the Accessory Family Residential Use is to be located. In the case of a corporation, the owner shall be one of the directors of the corporation; ii. where a statutory declaration is deposited with the City setting out the conditions of the City’s consent, subject to annual renewal prior to the anniversary date of the approval of such use;

 210.7.3
development and productive use of agricultural land; farm worker accommodation;

.4 An Accessory Full-Time Employee Residential Use:

a. shall only be permitted on lots within the Agricultural Land Reserve;

b. shall be located on a lot that is classified as "farm" under the B.C. Assessment Act;

c. shall be limited to one dwelling unit for such use per farm operation provided the total number of dwelling units, excluding Accessory Seasonal Employee Residential Use Buildings, will not exceed two dwelling units per farm operation;...See document for additional regualtions related to Accessory Full-Time Employee Use.

j. shall only be permitted where:

i. the owner of the farm operation is a resident on the same lot where the Accessory Full-Time Employee Residential Use is to be located, and an adult member of the owner’s immediate family works full-time on the farm operation. In the case of a corporation, the owner shall be one of the directors of the corporation. Despite the above, where a lot line realignment or lot consolidation results in a reduction in the number of contiguous lots in a farm operation and the two dwelling units have already been legally constructed and qualify as either a Single Detached Dwelling or an Accessory Full-Time Employee Residential Use, the owner of the farm operation need not reside on the farm operation;

ii. a statutory declaration is deposited with the City setting out the City’s conditions of consent;

iii. the resident employee is employed a minimum of 35 hours per week averaged over each month; and

iv. the minimum established level of operation on the farm operation meets or is equivalent to the following standards: ... See document for standards.

 

 210.7.4
development and productive use of agricultural land; farm worker accommodation;

.5 An Accessory Seasonal Employee Residential Use shall:

a. only be permitted on a lot with a minimum lot area of 3.8 ha;

b. only be permitted on lots within the Agricultural Land Reserve; c. be located on a lot that is classified as “farm” under the B.C. Assessment Act,

d. be limited to a maximum floor area of 200 m² for such use per farm operation, except that where the owner of a farm operation can document by ownership records or copies of leases registered in the Land Title Office that the subject berry or vegetable farm operation is at least 40 ha in size, a maximum of 300 m² for an Accessory Seasonal Employee Residential Use per farm operation shall be permitted; and ....See document for additional regulations related accessory seasonal employrr residential use.

 210.7.5
food processing, storage and distribution; food processing;

.6 An Accessory Processing Use shall only be permitted:

a. where approved by the Provincial Agricultural Land Commission;

b. where the Buildings and structures housing such use together do not exceed 2,000 m² in floor area; and

c. where associated unenclosed storage, including storage of drums, flats, and other containers, does not cover a lot area exceeding the floor area of the Buildings and structures housing the Accessory processing use.

 210.7.6
food sales, access and procurement; farm retail/gate sales;

.7 Buildings and structures for Farm Retail Sales shall be:

a. limited to one per farm operation; and b. have a maximum floor area of 300 m2 , including both indoor and outdoor sales and display areas.

 210.7.7
food sales, access and procurement;

farm retail/gate sales;

agri-tourism;

.8 Buildings and structures for a winery shall:

a. be permitted only where licensed by the Province of British Columbia;

b. be permitted where: i. at least 50% of that farm product is grown on the farm on which the winery is located; or ii. the farm that grows the farm products used to produce wine or cider is more than 2 hectares in area, and, unless otherwise authorized with the Agricultural Land Commission, at least 50% of the total farm product for processing is provided under a minimum 3 year contract from a farm in B.C.;

c. be limited to a maximum area for sampling, food and beverage service, retail wine display and sales of 125 m2 indoors and 125 m2 outdoors, and may include picnic areas Accessory to a winery use.

 210.7.8
economic development; agri-tourism

.9 Buildings and structures for Agri-Tourism shall:

a. be limited to 300 m2 in area, excluding exterior activity areas;

b. be limited to a catered food and beverage service where farm products from the farm operation are highlighted;

c. exclude permanent commercial kitchen facilities;

d. be limited to a total of 10 months of any calendar year;

e. provide within the lot, parking for all visitors; and f. not exceed 100 m2 in area where utilized for biodiversity conservation, passive recreation, heritage, wildlife and scenery view purposes, as long as the area occupied by

 210.7.9
food production; livestock;

.10 An Agricultural Use consisting of the keeping of swine:

a. shall only be permitted on a lot with a minimum lot area of 8.0 ha;

b. shall be provided with a manure storage facility with sufficient capacity to contain all manure generated from the swine operation over a minimum period of four months;

c. shall be provided with a mechanical ventilation system for all Buildings and structures housing swine;

d. existing on the date of adoption of this Bylaw, may be expanded provided such expansion is in accordance with section 210.3.4; and

e. shall ensure that all new development maintain a minimum 500 m minimum separation distance between the nearest points of any Building, structure, facility or enclosure used for the storage of swine, including manure storage facilities for the storage of swine manure and the Urban Area Boundary as shown within the Official Community Plan.

 210.7.10
waste management;

composting;

livestock;

 .11 The area used for processing of livestock wastes into garden compost shall not exceed 465 m 2 per farm operation. 210.7.11
food processing, storage and distribution; food processing; See document for regulations for Agricultural and Resource Processing Zone. section 230
food processing, storage and distribution; food processing;

See document for regulations for Agricultural and  Produce Processing Zone 

 section 240
food processing, storage and distribution; agricultural industry services;

See document for regulations for Agricultural and Farm Industrial Zone

 section 250
waste management;

composting;

crops;

See document for regulations for Agricultural and Commercial Mushroom Composting Zone

 section 260


Note: While all agricultural Zones (A1-A6) contain Conditions of Use regulations, only those is the A1 Agricultural Zone (section 210) are identified here due to the similarity of these regulations across all agricultural zones. See complete zoning document for Conditions of Use pertaining to each agricultural zone.  

 

 

City of Abbotsford Official Community Plan Bylaw, 2016, Part 3, Section 6 Agricultural Policies

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Food Self Reliance, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Urban Agriculture, Waste Management

Sub-topic(s): beekeeping/apiculture, covenants, endowment fund, farm retail/farm gate sales, food distribution, food processing, livestock, local food culture, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, pollinators, research and data collection, urban farm, waste to energy, zoning

Region: Fraser Valley | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2016

View policy:  HTML PDF

Topic Sub-topic  Policy or Policy excerpt Document Location Language Rating
food system policy partnerships, advocacy and development process; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Continue to work with the Agricultural Land Commission and the Ministry of Agriculture to develop up-to-date regulations to enable agriculture to grow and thrive.  6.1;  

development and productive use of agricultural land;

economic development;

endowment fund;

research and data collection;

zoning;

 Implement the Agricultural Enhancement Endowment Fund (‘Ag Trust Fund’) by requiring a $20,000 per acre contribution for land that is rezoned in the area identified on Map 16. Consider expanding the Ag Trust Fund program to further support agricultural research, innovation, and farm practices.  6.2; *

food processing, storage & distribution;

economic development;

 food processing; Encourage a thriving and innovative agricultural sector by supporting value-added agri-businesses in appropriate locations, including directing agri-processing facilities to specific areas.  6.3; *
economic development; research and data collection; Support and showcase agricultural enterprise, research, and best practices.  6.4;  

economic development;

development and productive use of agricultural land;

   Support the agricultural sector by preserving the agricultural land base, marketing the industry, and supporting local and regional initiatives to protect and further develop the local food industry and culture.  6.6; *

food processing, storage & distribution;

food sales, access and procurement;

waste management;

food processing;

food distribution;

local food culture;

waste to energy;

 Support a thriving food system throughout the city, including local production, processing, distribution, celebration, consumption, nutrient recovery, and waste to energy.  6.7; *
  research and data collection; Identify rural centres to enable support services for the rural farming community. 6.8; *

food sales, access and procurement;

urban agriculture;

urban farm;

farm retail/farm gate sales

 Enable the production and sale of food throughout the urban area by developing urban agriculture guidelines and permitting small scale, commercial urban food gardens 6.9; *

urban agriculture;

food self reliance;

food production;

beekeeping/apiculture;pollinators;

livestock;

covenants;

pollinators

 Consider supporting additional urban agriculture activities that encourage self sufficiency such as keeping bees in the urban area.  6.10;  

 

Bowen Island Municipality Land Use Bylaw No. 57, 2002

Topic(s): Food Sales, Access & Procurement

Sub-topic(s): farm retail/farm gate sales, zoning

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Zoning Bylaw | Year: consolidated 2016

View policy:  HTML PDF

Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
food sales, access and procurement; farm retail/ farm gate sales; A roadside stand for farm gate sales of locally produced agricultural products accessory to agricultural use that does not exceed 2.5 metres in height and 10 square metres in floor area shall have a minimum setback of 4.6 metres from a highway. 3.14

 

City of Vernon Zoning Bylaw #5000, Agricultural Zones in ALR

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Food Sales, Access & Procurement

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, food processing, farm retail/farm gate sales, ALR, siting and coverage

Region: North Okanagan | Document Type: Zoning Bylaw | Year: 2003

View policy:  HTML PDF

Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
development and productive use of agricultural land;

siting and coverage;

ALR;

See document for coverage and siting regualtions in Agriculture Zones within the ALR.

 8.1.5
food procesing, storage and distribution;

food processing;

ALR;

 Farm and animal products processing is allowed provided that a minimum of 50% of the products are produced on-site. 8.1.6
food sales, access and procurement;

farm retail/gate sales;

ALR;

 Agricultural and garden stands selling produce grown on the site or another site operated by the same producer do not have a maximum area. The maximum gross floor area of stands selling produce that is produced off-site shall be 50.0m2 . For sites within the Agricultural Land Reserve, the maximum gross floor area of agricultural and garden sales for produce off-site shall be lesser of 33% of the total floor area of the agricultural or garden stand or 50.0m2 . 8.1.6
economic development; agri-tourism; Agri-tourist accommodation shall not be located on lots smaller than 2.0ha (5 acres) in size and shall not exceed 10 bedrooms, campsites or recreational vehicle pads.  8.1.6
       

Regulations included above are for section 8.1 Agriculture within the ALR (A1). See complete zoning bylaw for other agricultural zoning regulations including large and small holdings outside of the ALR (A2).

City of Vancouver Zoning & Development Bylaw 3575

Topic(s): Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Urban Agriculture

Sub-topic(s): urban farm, zoning, farm retail/farm gate sales, farmers' markets

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Zoning Bylaw | Year: consolidated 2016

View policy:  HTML PDF

Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
food sales, access and procurement farmers' markets;

Farmers’ Market

11.21.1 A Farmers’ Market must be in: (a) open air stalls or booths; (b) stalls or booths partially or totally covered by tents or similar temporary structures; and (c) stalls or booths in a building approved for use as a Farmers’ Market.

11.21.2 A Farmers’ Market must have at least 11 stalls or booths, except that the Director of Planning may permit a lesser number of stalls or booths, if the Director of Planning first considers all applicable policies and guidelines adopted by Council.

11.21.3 The site area of a Farmers’ Market must not exceed 2 323 m2 , except that the Director of Planning may permit an increase in site area, if the Director of Planning first considers all applicable policies and guidelines adopted by Council.

11.21.4 A vendor at a Farmers’ Market must only sell: local fresh, dried or frozen fruit and vegetables; local dried or frozen meat and seafood; local eggs; local dairy products; local plants; local prepared foods; local ready-to-eat foods; local artisan crafts; or local wine, cider, beer or spirits.

11.21.5 No more than 40% of the total number of stalls or booths in a Farmers’ Market may be used for the sale of local ready-to-eat foods and local artisan crafts.

11.21.6 There must be no more than three vendors selling or providing samples of local wine, cider, beer or spirits at a Farmers’ Market.

 11.21

urban agriculture;

 urban farm;

Urban Farm - Class A

Notwithstanding anything else in this By-law, Urban Farm - Class A is subject to the following:

11.29.1 The planting area must not exceed 325 m2 on any single parcel unless the primary use of the parcel is Park or Institutional in which case the Director of Planning may permit an increase in planting area to a maximum of 7 000 m2 .

11.29.2 If two or more parcels are operated jointly as an Urban Farm - Class A, the combined planting area for all parcels must not exceed 7 000 m2 .

11.29.3 No on-site processing of fruits and vegetables, or manufacturing of food products is permitted.

11.29.4 No mechanical equipment may be used other than that designed for household use including lawnmowers, rototillers, garden hoses and pruners.

11.29.5 No herbicides or pesticides are permitted.

11.29.6 No on-site sales are permitted, unless the primary use of the parcel is Institutional.

11.29.7 No Urban Farm - Class A operated on a single parcel may generate revenue exceeding $9,999 in any calendar year, unless the primary use of the parcel is Park or Institutional.

11.29.8 If an Urban Farm - Class A is operated, in whole or in part, by a person other than an owner or full-time resident of the parcel, the planting area must be subject to a lease authorizing the operation of the farm.

11.29.9 No offensive noise, odour, light, smoke, or vibration or other objectionable effect may be produced.

11.29.10 No mechanical equipment may be stored outside.

11.29.11 Any development permit or waiver of a development permit for an Urban Form-Class A is time limited to 1 year.

Urban Farm - Class B

Notwithstanding anything else in this By-law, Urban Farm – Class B is subject to the following:

11.30.1 The planting area for a single parcel or the combined planting area for all parcels operated jointly as an Urban Farm – Class B, may not exceed 7 000 m2 , unless relaxed by the Director of Planning due to unnecessary hardship associated with the location, shape or size of the parcel or parcels.

11.30.2 If located within 30 m of a residential use, no mechanical equipment may be used other than that designed for household use including lawnmowers, rototillers, garden hoses and pruners.

11.30.3 No herbicides or pesticides are permitted.

11.30.4 No offensive noise, odour, light, smoke, or vibration or other objectionable effect may be produced.

11.30.5 If an Urban Farm - Class B is operated, in whole or in part, by a person other than an owner or full-time resident of the parcel during the farm operation, the planting area must be subject to a lease authorizing the operation of the farm.

11.30.6 Any development permit for an Urban Farm Class B is time limited to 1 year

 section 11, 11.29- 11,30

 

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