Setting Our Table Capital Regional District Food & Agriculture Strategy

Topic(s): Economic Development, Education, First Nations and Indigenous Food Systems, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Water Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): soil, research and data collection, water rate for agriculture, pollinators, wildlife and ecosystem management, irrigation and drainage, farmland trust, agri-tourism, partnerships/advocacy/liaising

Region: Capital | Document Type: Food Strategy | Year: 2016

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;   Establish a Regional Food and Agriculture (RFA) Task Force to develop an organizational structure that supports regional collaboration and strategic decision-making.  5.1
education;   Develop food and agricultural education, experience and expertise.  5.2 (i)
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;   Embed food and agricultural experience
and expertise within the CRD.		 5.2 (ii)
  research and data collection;  iii) Maintain and improve regional food and
agriculture data.		 5.2 (iii)
wildlife/environmental/pest management; soil; Consider food and agriculture interests with a goal of improving the region’s soils. 5.3
water management; irrigation and drainage; Where possible, support municipal efforts towards watershed management with a goal to address drainage issues impacting the region’s most fertile soils. 5.4
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; i) Continue to consider food and agriculture interests in regional wildlife management discussions and projects.  5.5(i)
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

pollinators;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 ii) Consider emerging wildlife and
environmental issues e.g. beneficial
species (pollinators), invasive and
problematic species. 		 5.5 (ii)
water management; water rate for agriculture; Continue to provide affordable water rates for rural farm operations, and through direction from the water commissions, consider extending them to urban agriculture operations. 5.6

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

First Nations and indigenous food systems;

 partnerships/ advocacy/liaising; Continue to develop meaningful relationships with Aboriginal communities through regional food and agriculture discussions and activities. 5.7

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

First Nations and indigenous food systems;

 partnerships/ advocacy/liaising; Pursue regional food and agriculture related partnerships and activities between Aboriginal and non-aboriginal communities, agencies and groups. 5.8
  farmland trust; Initiate a process to establish a regional food and farmland trust. 5.9
economic development; agri-tourism;  ii) Support strategic business development initiatives for the region’s food and
agriculture sector including agri-tourism.		 5.10 (ii)

City of Powell River Sustainable Community Plan Bylaw 2370

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

Sub-topic(s): ALR, irrigation and drainage, ALR subdivision, buffer at agricultural edge, food processing, agricultural industry services, composting, community food system education, new entrants to farming, farmland trust, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, edible landscaping, livestock, food recovery/gleaning/donation, farmers' markets, residential development, urban gardens/orchard

Region: Powell River | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2013

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location Language Rating

development and productive use of agricultural land;

 ALR;

Maintain land with agricultural potential in the ALR for future agricultural uses.

4.3.2 (a)

  
water management;

irrigation and drainage;

Support development of on-farm water infrastructure (e.g. storage facilities, holding tanks, ponds, and drainage) on agricultural lands.

4.3.2 (c)

  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

The subdivision of lands within the ALR where lot area or layout will impede or fragment agricultural potential or viability is not supported.

 4.3.2 (d) *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

Encourage a minimum lot size of 8.0 ha in accordance with the provincial standard. Neither an approving officer nor the ALC is obliged to approve applications for subdivision that meet minimum lot size specifications.

 4.3.2 (e) *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

Encourage consolidation of small parcels to create larger farm units for agricultural use where agricultural viability will be enhanced.

 4.3.2 (f) *
urban-ag conflict/edge planning;

buffer at agricultural edge;

ALR;

In order to protect ALR from incompatible or inconsistent uses, development of lands adjacent to, or within, Agricultural Land Reserve lands will be required to:

a. Minimize impacts to the natural and human-made physical features of the area, and

b. Include a buffer zone on the non-agricultural side of the parcel boundary adjacent to agricultural land

 4.3.2 (g) *
economic development;

food processing;

agricultural industry services;

Consider and support initiatives to address key gaps or weaknesses in the agriculture industry’s capacity, such as food processing facilities, a commercial abattoir, marketing, communications and input costs.

 4.3.2 (i)  
waste management; composting;

Investigate opportunities to use local waste products as agricultural inputs.

 4.3.2 (j)  
education;

community food system education;

new entrants to farming;

Consider use of public lands for activities that contribute to enhanced food security, agricultural awareness and attracting new farmers to the region.

 4.3.2 (l)  
land access;

new entrants to farming;

farmland trust;

Consider and support innovative land and mentorship access models to support new farmers in gaining access to agricultural land for production, such as farmland trusts and `Start-Up Farms` programs.

 4.3.2 (m)  
economic development;

ALR;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

Support local organizations to acquire private land, including parcels in the ALR, for the purpose of enhancing agricultural use and farm business viability.

 4.3.2 (n) *

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

Support initiatives by local organizations and individuals to enhance agricultural capacity in the region, such as the "Full Circle Farm" project.

 4.3.2 (o)  

food sales, access and procurement;

farmers' markets;

Farmer's Markets are supported as a direct marketing opportunity for farmers to provide fresh locally produced fruits, vegetables, livestock, poultry and dairy products to consumers.

 4.3.2 (p) *
urban agriculture;

edible landscaping;

residential development;

Encourage growing edible plants in residential building setback areas and backyards.

 4.3.2 (q) *
urban agriculture;

edible landscaping;

ALR;

Encourage community gardens in various forms including consideration of a garden bed box program, support for community gardens on private land such as multi-family sites, and use of vacant City or undeveloped land in the ALR land by a not for profit organization.

 4.3.2 (r) *
food production;

zoning;

livestock;

residential development;

Agricultural use in the Suburban Residential designation is encouraged (although such lands are not within the ALR) but shall exclude intensive operations such as feed lots, piggeries, poultry farms, mushroom farms, all subject to Provincial Right to Farm legislation. 

4.5.1 (d)

  
food sales, access and procurement;

food recovery/gleaning/donation;

The City supports the local food bank and other food security initiatives for community members dependent upon this service.

6.3.2 (a)

  

food production;

economic development;

urban agriculture;

urban gardens/orchard;

livestock;

Council will support the investigation and development of specific food production opportunities within the community. 

8.1.2 (h)

  

 

City of Coquitlam Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 3479,

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): wildlife and ecosystem management, farmland trust

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2002

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

Promote the continued farming of existing agricultural lands. Uphold current agricultural land use designations

 section 5.8 objective 2 (b)  
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

farmland trust;

Support the continued role of agricultural lands for supporting migratory birds such as raptors and waterfowl. This may be achieved by:

- working with the GVRD to promote habitat enhancements and the preservation of open green space at Colony farm; and

- investigating the feasibility of various land trust activities.

section 5.8 objective 2 (d)

  

 

Corporation of Delta Agricultural Area Plan

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

Sub-topic(s): ALR, BC environmental farm plan, climate change and greenhouse gases, community food system education, covenants, crops, deposit of fill and dumping, disclosure agreement, farm diversification, farm traffic, farmland speculation, farmland trust, food processing, irrigation and drainage, leasing of land for agriculture, local food culture, new entrants to farming, nuisance complaints, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, recreational use of agricultural land, residential development, signage in agricultural areas, soil, tax mechanisms, urban gardens/orchard, water rate for agriculture, wildlife and ecosystem management

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Agriculture Area Plan/Strategy | Year: 2011

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
food processing, storage and distribution;

food processing;

farm diversification;

 Encourage and facilitate local on-farm processing opportunities with on-farm regulatory processes and requirements that encourage diversification 5.1.1
food processing, storage and distribution; food processing;  Investigate the feasibility of attracting processors for local crops by providing financial incentives and serviced locations. Identify and target appropriate scale niche and value chain opportunities presented by the Delta agricultural sector 5.1.1
food processing, storage and distribution; food processing; tax mechanisms; Investigate the feasibility of attracting processors using a revitalization tax exemption program bylaw 5.1.1
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Lobby for the incorporation of on-farm value-added as eligible farm income for farm tax assessment purposes. 5.1.1

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

water management

water rate for agriculture;

irrigation and drainage;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Advocate with Metro Vancouver for regional bulk water rates for agriculture (e.g., Capital Regional District) or otherwise reduce the cost of municipal water to farmers) 5.1.2
  climate change and greenhouse gases; Investigate the feasibility of alternative fuel technologies (e.g., cogeneration) to support farm operations and reduce GHG emissions 5.1.2
economic development;   Encourage farmer buying groups for inputs (fertilizer, lime, feed, other inputs) 5.1.2

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;;

land access;

leasing of land for agriculture;

farmland trust;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

  Advocate for a regional agricultural trust to acquire agricultural land and provide affordable long term leases to farmers. 5.1.2
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

 Lobby senior governments to investigate and research opportunities and create incentives for farmers to reduce GHG emissions. 5.1.2
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; tax mechanisms;   Lobby the Province to investigate farmstead provisions that would tax agricultural buildings and improvements of bona fide farmers at a lower agricultural rate or provide tax exemptions for farm improvements (e.g., New York State, North Dakota). 5.1.2
development and productive use of agricultural land; deposit of fill and dumping; Identify areas where dumping of waste on agricultural lands is occurring, improve frequency of clean-up, and  increase bylaw enforcement 5.1.3
education;

recreational use of agricultural land;

signage is agricultural areas;

 Review and maintain signage and provide education material to recreational users that they are in an agricultural area and that agricultural activities are acceptable 5.1.3
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

nuisance complaints;

covenants;

residential development;

disclosure agreement;

 Require notification/disclosure on property transactions adjacent to agricultural lands that purchasers may expect normal farm practices, possibly  through a covenant 5.1.3
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

farm diversification;

 Assist farmers to navigate the regulatory requirements in pursuing innovative projects (e.g., energy and waste management technologies), on-farm value added and diversification 5.1.4
  climate change and greenhouse gases;  Work with farmers to develop technological and land based solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with agricultural practices and to make farm business more resilient to future impacts of climate change by investing in adaptation strategies for agriculture. 5.1.4
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising;  Support farmers in dealings with federal and provincial agencies, such as the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and BC Ministry of Environment, to ensure that conditions for efficient agriculture are enhanced, and specifically work toward “agriculture-friendly” protocols for ditch and dike maintenance that protect the environment and are timely, reasonable and feasible from an agricultural perspective 5.1.5
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Build agricultural understanding in municipal Hall with agriculturally qualified staff (e.g., professional agrologist), information sessions, tours and dialogue 5.1.5
wildlife, environmental and pest management; BC environmental farm plan; Encourage environmental farm planning, the adoption of beneficial management practices, and other environmental initiatives to reduce environmental risks and regulatory compliance costs 5.1.5
water management;

crops;

food processing;

irrigation and drainage;

 Ensure municipal water is accessible to support high valued crops production and on-farm processing. 5.2.1
water management; irrigation and drainage; Continue to improve agricultural drainage and irrigation  5.2.1
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning; farm traffic; Continue to work with the farming community to explore options to improve agricultural vehicle movement (e.g., through the Highways Bylaw) 5.2.2
economic development;

new entrants to farming;

farm diversification;
In collaboration with Metro Vancouver, neighbouring municipalities and BCMA, investigate options for providing agrologist services to assist start up farmers and identify funding sources to pursue new business ideas.		 5.3.1
education;

new entrants to farming;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Enhance relationships with Delta farmers, secondary and post-secondary education institutions, agricultural academies, ministries and associations to facilitate events and initiatives to provide new/young farmers with training, mentoring, technical expertise, production knowledge, and access to agricultural programs that would promote knowledge transfer and build capacity in smaller scale farming 5.3.1
economic development; farm diversification;  Explore and support farming models that develop stronger connections between the farming community and the local marketplace and encourage new types of agricultural enterprise, such as community supported agriculture, cooperatives, local food alliances, and community networks. 5.3.1
education; new entrants to farming; Support on-farm internship programs (e.g., Canadian Farm Business Management Council, CRAFTOntario program, WWOOF Canada
 		 5.3.1
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Lobby senior governments for the development of family trust legislation to facilitate transfer of farmland between generations 5.3.1
land access;

leasing of agricultural land;

new entrants to farming;

 Investigate incentives to encourage active farmland use, by improving access by aspiring and landless farmers, spurring existing non-farming farmland owners to lease out their land, exploring agricultural trusts, and encouraging longer lease terms. 5.3.2
land access;

leasing of agricultural land;

new entrants to farming;

 Make municipal and Crown land available for farming under lease to young farmers and new entrants. 5.3.2
land access; farmland trust; Explore new relationships with existing land trusts (e.g., Ducks Unlimited, The Land Conservancy), to increase access to farmland by farmers. 5.3.2
development and productive use of agricultural land;

soil;

ALR;

deposit of fill and dumping;

 Improve enforcement of existing regulations in farming areas including soil filling, storage, waste dumping, and maintenance of agricultural properties, engaging the AAC to assist in spotting violations and problem areas 5.3.3
development and productive use of agricultural land;

farmland speculation;

ALR;

 Explore financial mechanisms to address farmland speculation and deter non-agricultural development on farmland. 5.3.3

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

education;

nuisance complaints;

ALR;

residential development;

 Educate rural-residential property owners about normal impacts associated with adjacent agricultural operations and create awareness among realtors and non-agricultural property purchasers of farming activities in the ALR 5.3.3
land access;

covenants

farmland trust

 Encourage agricultural and other land trusts to make their farmland available to Delta famers without covenants that restrict its agricultural use. 5.3.3
education;

local food culture;

community food system education;

 Build on existing farmer-supported agricultural awareness events such as “Farm Hike by Bike” (Earthwise) or “A Day at the Farm”, Delta Farm Tours, and “Meet Your Maker” events, work with local tourism/hospitality industry to initiate ‘taste of Delta’ food promotions at Delta restaurants and hotels, and other opportunities for the public to experience local food and agriculture 5.4.1
education; community food system education; Develop a multi-partner communications plan to engage farm groups e.g. by creating contact lists of farmers and farmers organizations
willing to educate the public, distributing a “Champions of Farming” speakers list to the Rotary Club, Delta Chamber of Commerce and other groups, encouraging presentations on agricultural issues and to engage the public, (e.g., agricultural awareness events, newspaper coverage, crop information, and farm field identification.		 5.4.1

urban agriculture;

education;

community food system education;

urban gardens/orchard;

 Support and expand opportunities for community gardens/urban agriculture demonstrations to promote agricultural awareness, through additional funding , supportive bylaws and provision of land 5.4.1
economic development; research and data collection; Encourage reports and research that show what the returns to farmers are on agricultural products, where the food dollar goes in the food chain, and the cost of food in relation to other staples in the community 5.4.1

education;

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

signage in agricultural areas;

farm traffic;

 Review and expand signage to identify agricultural areas, what is grown in those areas, and indicate respect for farm traffic. 5.4.1
wildlife, environmental and pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Engage with the Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust (DFWT) to promote initiatives to foster public awareness of how farmland sustains wildlife and habitat and to build support for more equitable sharing of the costs of providing ecological goods and services. 5.4.2

wildlife, environmental and pest management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

wildlife nad ecosystem management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Lobby senior governments for programs to compensate farmers for wildlife crop damage, through participation in federal –provincial waterfowl damage compensation programs. 5.4.2

development and productive use of agricultural land;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

partnerships and advocacy;

 Lobby the ALC, provincial ministries, BC EAO and CEAA to develop a better framework for addressing loss of land base due to public infrastructure works, transportation projects, land claims, wildlife and fisheries policy, incorporating compensation and mitigation to offset the negative impact on agriculture. 5.4.2
wildlife, environmental and pest management;

research and data collection;

wildlife and ecosystem management; 

 Support research into integrated farm-level strategies to mitigate the potential for damages from waterfowl.  5.4.2

wildlife, environmental and pest management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Advocate with Metro Vancouver to establish a program to compensate farmers for ecological goods and services that agricultural land provides (e.g. creating a regional levy) 5.4.2

wildlife, environmental and pest management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Work with environmental agencies to develop effective ways of managing agriculturally sustainable wildlife populations 5.4.2
economic development; local food culture; 

Work with Metro Vancouver and other lower Mainland municipalities to investigate the feasibility of regional branding for agricultural products, developing a “buy regional” policy for local governments, and engaging businesses, schools, government agencies, and institutions to participate.

 5.4.3
 

climate change and greenhouse gases;

research and development ;

crops;

 Pursue opportunities to re-instate on-farm field trials function, specifically in relation to crops grown in Delta and responses to cope with impending climate change 5.4.3
economic development;

tax mechanisms;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

 Explore on-farm carbon tax and sequestration responses that would provide economic benefits to farming. 5.4.3

Salt Spring Island Local Trust Committee Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 434, Volume 2: Development Permit and Heritage Conservation Areas etc...

Topic(s): Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Urban - Agriculture Conflict & Edge Planning, Water Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): amenity density zoning/contributions, buffer at agricultural edge, commercial development, covenants, farmland trust, food processing, food storage, irrigation and drainage, residential development, stormwater management, urban gardens/orchard

Region: Islands Trust | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: consolidated 2015

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location Language Rating
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

buffer at agricultural edge;

covenants;

 Where the property being subdivided or developed adjoins agricultural land, a vegetated buffer is to be planted or retained. The buffer should usually be at least 3 m wide and should be consistent with the Landscaped Buffer Guidelines (ALC, 1993) developed by the Agricultural Land Commission. The buffer area should be protected from disturbance by a covenant. E.1.7.22 *

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

water management;

stormwater management;

irrigation and drainage;

commercial development;

institutional development;

residential development;

 New commercial, industrial, institutional and multi-family residential developments that will create more than 280 m2 of new impervious surfacing should include a report prepared by a Professional Engineer that determines the extent of changes to the natural drainage. It should identify any conditions that should be incorporated into the development permit to protect property from flooding, erosion or from other undesirable impacts as the result of changes to stormwater runoff. Particular attention should be paid to ensuring that drainage changes will not result in detrimental impacts such as flooding or reduced groundwater availability on agricultural lands or watercourses that either adjoin the development or are located in the same watershed. E.1.10.2 Developments that would create less than 280 m2 of impervious surface area should not alter drainage in a way that would cause detrimental impacts on other properties, including agricultural land. The Local Trust Committee could request that a drainage plan be prepared by a Professional Engineer to assist it in establishing development permit conditions related to drainage, E.1.10.1 *
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning; buffer at agricultural edge; Developments adjoining agricultural lands should be designed to minimize conflicts with that land. The location of access roads, the siting of structures and the layout of subdivisions should follow the guidelines developed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands and the Agricultural Land Commission as a guide to implementing the Farm Practices Protection (Right to Farm) Act (MAFF, 1996). Site designs should allow for a vegetated buffer, as outlined in Guideline E.2.8.7. E.2.8.7 Where the property being subdivided or developed adjoins agricultural land, a vegetated buffer is to be planted or retained. The buffer should usually be at least 3 m wide and should be consistent with the Landscaped Buffer Guidelines (ALC, 1993) developed by the Agricultural Land Commission. The buffer area should be protected from disturbance by a covenant.  E.2.4.5  

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

water management;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 Development should not result in the pollution of surface or groundwater supplies. Particular care should be taken to ensure that there are no detrimental impacts on agricultural land or fishbearing watercourses because of water pollution.  E.2.12.3 *
food processing, storage and distribution;

amenity density zoning/contributions;

food processing;

food storage;

urban gardens/orchard;

farmland trust;

The Local Trust Committee could consider Amenity Zoning applications that would provide the following eligible community amenities: (Note: the amenities within this list are not in order of priority)...

...e. land for community-owned farmland or land for community agricultural processing or storage facilities provided to the Salt Spring Farmers' Institute or a community farmland trust organization.

 H.3.2.1 (e )  

 

Supplementary Information

Municipal Planner Interview with Salt Spring Island Re: Amenity Zoning Provisions for Community Owned Farmland and Community Storage/Processing Facilities

Amenity Zoning is the granting of additional development potential (such as an increase in density beyond existing zoning regulations, or a subdivision of a property) in exchange for the voluntary provision of a community amenity by the land owner.  Among its list of eligible amenity contributions, Salt Spring Island Local Trust Committee includes the donation of land for community-owned farmland or agricultural processing/storage facilities.

Policy Development and Public Consultation

For quite some time, the Salt Springs Island OCP has permitted the donation of farmland and land for agricultural processing/storage facilities as eligible contributions in exchange for increased development potential. Similar policies are present in both Salt Spring Island’s current OCP (adopted in 2008), and the previous, now repealed, OCP adopted in 1998.

During the 2008 OCP review process, staff prepared opportunities for the community to provide input on specific topics, including amenity zoning. To gather feedback on this particular topic, public meetings and six focus groups were held during the OCP review and development process. Two staff reports were drafted to summarize recommendations to improve the Amenity Zoning policies and help inform their review and improvement.  (see LPSa and LPSb )

Policy Adoption

As a result of staff, council and community discussion during the latest OCP review, the Amenity Zoning provisions were updated to provide the Local Trust Committee with more guidance as to how to employ the policies. These revisions include a list of factors that the Local Trust Committee should consider in order assess the appropriateness of the land for the increased density prior to approving any applications for amenity zoning. Examples of these considerations include the proximity of the site and the proposed development to areas with high environmental value, to areas subject to erosion/flooding and to existing roads and services.  

Policy Implementation and Outcomes

Amenity zoning is employed as a discretionary tool and considered on a case-by-case basis.  Since density increases on Salt Spring Island can be limited by other factors (eg. moratoriums on increases in water demand), there have been few successful development proposals to increase density on the Island. Additionally, other amenities (e.g. affordable housing) can be viewed as more attractive contributions by applicants.

To date, this policy has been successfully implemented once. In this instance, 60 acres of agricultural land in the Fulford Valley (an agricultural area) was donated to the Salt Spring Island Farmers’ Institute for the establishment of a community farmland trust. This donation was made in exchange for an increase in density for a development in Fulford Harbour. The donated land is now home to the Burgoyne Valley Community Farm, which includes six farming operations, a community garden, and a community services plot where food is produced for people who would not otherwise have access to local produce. This is cited as an excellent example of how amenity zoning provisions can benefit the agricultural community.

Policy Recommendations

Presently, amenity zoning is the granting of additional development density by the Local Trust Committee in exchange for the voluntary provision of a community amenity by the land owner. It was suggested that the Amenity Zoning policies could be applied to re-zoning requests in addition to their current application to request for increased density. In this way, rezoning applications which do not request and increase in development potential, but instead request a change in land use, could offer community amenities in exchange for granting a request to rezone land. By applying Amenity Zoning to rezoning applications, regardless of whether or not the rezoning application was for an increase in density, Salt Spring’s Local Trust Committee could help achieve its goal of increasing community amenities on the Island.

Related Policies and Processes

The Agricultural Land Reserve application referral process has also resulted in the provision of amenities to support the agricultural community on Salt Spring Island.

For example, the Produce Center, a community food storage/processing facility currently being designed/developed, resulted from an application to exclude land from the Agricultural Land Reserve. Negotiations between the developer, the Islands Trust, the Agricultural Land Commission and the agricultural community resulted in an agreement that the developer facilitate the creation of the Produce Centre as part of the conditions for granting the ALR exclusion.  Such a facility, identified in Salt Spring’s Area Farm Plan, is considered a significant contribution in supporting the viability of the local agricultural community by increasing the Island’s storage, handling and distribution capacity for locally produced foods.

Note:  Recommendations included in the Salt Spring Area Farm Plan, adopted in 2008, played a key role in informing agricultural policies included in the OCP, such as the Amenity Zoning described here. Please see Salt Spring Island Farm Area Plan for more details.

 

References

LPSa, Local Planning Services, Staff Report Amenity Zoning and Density Transfer provisions of Salt Spring Island Official Community Plan, presented to Salt Spring Island Local Trust Committee. March 20th, 2008.

LPSb, Local Planning Services, Staff Re OCP Review- April Draft, presented to Salt Spring Island Local Trust Committee. May 5th, 2008.

LPSc, Local Planning Services, Salt Spring Island Trust, personal communication, October 2016.

Salt Spring Area Farm Plan, http://plantofarm.org/who-we-are/area-farm-plan/, retrieved November 2016

Salt Spring Island Farmland Trust, http://www.ssifarmlandtrust.org/, retrieved December 2016

 

 

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

View policy:  HTML PDF

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 Victoria Official Community Plan

Topic(s): Economic Development, Education, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Urban Agriculture, Waste Management, Water Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): beekeeping/apiculture, climate change and greenhouse gases, commercial development, community food system education, composting, edible landscaping, emergency preparedness, farmers' markets, farmland trust, food processing, food recovery/gleaning/donation, greenhouses, grocery stores, home occupation/home based businesses, livestock, local food culture, mobile/street food vending, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, pilot project, pollinators, research and data collection, residential development, stormwater management, urban chickens, urban farm, urban gardens/orchard, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Capital | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2012

View policy:  HTML PDF

 

Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location Language Rating

urban agriculture;

food production;

zoning;

urban gardens/orchard;

 Parks, schools, public facilities and utilities, public assembly, community services, pathways, open space, urban food production,institutional, and recreational uses are permitted in all designations as determined in accordance with zoning. 6.4; *

urban agriculture;

water management;

food production;

urban gardens/orchard;

stormwater management;

pilot project;

[Implement the City’s Greenways Plan as shown in Map 6, seeking opportunities to enhance recreational opportunities, identity, green features and the pedestrian and cycling experience by]...

...Piloting green infrastructure and urban food production in greenways

 9.7.3 *

food production;

food processing, storage and distribution;

food access, sales and procurement;

nutrition and public health;

economic development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

food processing;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

local food culture;

Participate in coordinated community and regional efforts to develop a more sustainable food system that considers all stages of the food system as shown in Figure 18, and that:

17.1.1 Contributes to the economic development, environmental management, and social well-being of Victoria and the region;

17.1.2 Encourages local and regional food production and processing, and protection of productive farmland;

17.1.3 Recognizes access to safe, sufficient, culturally appropriate and nutritious food as a basic need for all citizens;

and,17.1.4 Celebrates local food culture, cuisine, and indigenous and local food traditions.

 17.1; *
policy partnerships, advocacy and development   Assess neighbourhood food system features and needs as part of local area planning. 17.3;  

urban agriculture;

food production;

urban gardens/orchard;

edible landscaping;

Review and develop City policy to increase the number of allotment gardens, commons gardens, edible landscapes, food-bearing trees and other types of food production activities that considers other uses and identifies:

17.4.1 The land types and potential City-held sites where different food production activities might be supported;

17.4.2 The roles and responsibilities of participants; 

17.4.3 Mechanisms to encourage and support food production sites on City-held lands, other publicly-held lands, and on private lands;

and 17.4.4 Mechanisms to acquire land for food production purposes, where appropriate.

 17.4; *

urban agriculture;

food production;

 urban gardens/orchard; Encourage food production activities in visible and suitable public places to foster a connection between people and the process of growing, harvesting and eating fresh produce.  17.5; *

urban agriculture;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

food production;

 urban gardens/orchard; Include urban food production objectives in the development of management strategies to address pests, disease, invasive species, urban wildlife and other ecological issues on public and private lands. 17.6; *
urban agriculture; urban gardens/orchard; Support the establishment of at least one allotment garden per neighbourhood, co-located with community facilities or services where possible, and more in neighbourhoods that feature a high proportion of rental or attached housing, where feasible. 17.7; *
urban agriculture;

urban gardens/orchard;

pilot project;

 Work with community groups to develop pilot projects for the planting, maintenance and harvesting of food-bearing trees on suitable City-held lands. 17.8; *

food production;

urban agriculture;

 partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Consider new and innovative approaches to urban food production that increase food security, in partnership with citizens, community groups and other stakeholders. 17.9;  

food production;

urban agriculture;

urban gardens/orchard;

 Support food production on private land where it is safe, suitable and compatible with the Urban Place Guidelines in this plan. 17.10;  

urban agriculture;

food production;

urban gardens/orchard;

residential development;

 Encourage the provision of gardens and other food production spaces for the use of residents in new multi-unit housing. 17.11; *
food production;

urban chickens;

beekeeping/apiculture;

pollinators;

livestock;

Support the keeping of small livestock in the city by:

17.13.1 Maintaining regulatory support for the keeping of poultry and honeybees;

and,17.13.2 Reviewing regulations to consider the keeping of other small livestock for food production, appropriate to an urban environment, in collaboration with senior levels of government and the health authority.

 17.13; *
urban agriculture;

zoning;

urban farm;

urban farm;home occupations/ home-based business;

commercial development;

institutional development;

residential development;

greenhouses;

Explore expanded small-scale commercial urban agriculture through a review of policy and regulations to consider the opportunities for, and implications of:

17.14.1 Enabling infrastructure and human resources needed to support small-scale commercial urban agriculture as a home occupation;

17.14.2 Using residential accessory buildings for commercial agricultural purposes; and, 17.14.3 Allowing commercial urban agriculture uses, including greenhouses, in commercial and industrial zones.

 17.14; *
food sales, access and procurement; grocery stores; Support the achievement of residential densities sufficient to support food stores and other food retail uses such as bakeries, restaurants and pubs, in town centres and large urban villages. 17.15;  
food sales, access and procurement; mobile/street food vending Explore expanded street food vending opportunities to animate the public realm and showcase local cuisine, through the review of existing regulations and the development of a program in partnership with local businesses and the health authority. 17.16; *
food sales, access and procurement; farmers' markets;  Encourage the development of farmers markets in Town Centres and Urban Villages, and a viable year-round farmers market in the Downtown Core Area, to animate the public and private realm and support local growers and food processors. 17.17;  

waste management;

urban agriculture;

food production;

food processing, storage and distribution;

pilot project;

food processing;

food recovery/gleaning/donation;

 Pilot new uses in appropriate locations that enhance urban food production, processing and food waste recycling. 17.18; *
food processing, storage and distribution;

food processing;

farmland trust;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

Work with neighbouring municipalities, the Capital Regional District, the provincial government and other food system stakeholders to increase the regional food supply by:

17.19.1 Establishing policies, tools and initiatives to protect and expand working farmland, such as a regional farmland trust; and,

17.19.2 Implementing strategies to support and re-establish key food system infrastructure such as meat, fruit and vegetable processing facilities. 

 17.19; *

nutrition and public health;

food sales, access and procurement;

 community food system education; Support the efforts of community centres, community organizations, the health authority, the school district, senior government and the private sector to establish programs and resources that build knowledge and skills to help people move towards healthier, and more secure and dignified access to nutritious food. 17.21; *
food sales, access and procurement;

emergency preparedness;

research and data collection;

 Identify short and long-term food supply and infrastructure needs as part of a critical infrastructure assessment in City emergency preparedness planning.  17.22; *
policy planning, partnerships, advocacy and development;

emergency preparedness;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

 Work with regional partners to enhance the capacity of the regional food system to adapt to climate change impacts, including water shortages, extreme weather events and fluctuations in global food and energy prices. 17.23; *
waste management; food recovery/gleaning/donation; Support the efforts of community organizations and the private sector to establish initiatives that divert recoverable food from the pre-waste stream for redistribution to local food security organizations. 17.25; *
waste management;

composting;

commercial development;

residential development;

Encourage the Capital Regional District to undertake a regionally coordinated approach to the recycling of food waste that retains biological nutrients regionally by:

17.26.1 Promoting household composting systems;

17.26.2 Establishing a household organic waste collection program with opportunities for finished compost to be made available for farmers and other food producers within the region;

and,17.26.3 Developing strategies to encourage organic waste diversion from multi-unit housing and commercial properties.

 17.26; *
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