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 Vancouver Food Charter

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

Sub-topic(s): composting, food recovery/gleaning/donation, livestock, local food culture, soil

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Food Charter | Year: 2007

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;    Be leaders in municipal and regional food-related policies and programs. 
food production;    Support regional farmers and food producers.

waste management;

urban agriculture;

 food recovery/gleaning/donation; Expand urban agriculture and food recovery opportunities.

waste management;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

composting;

soil;

 Promote composting and the preservation of healthy soil.
food production; livestock; Encourage humane treatment of animals raised for food.
wildlife/environmental/pest management;   Support sustainable agriculture and preserve farm land resources.

food sales, access and procurement;

nutrition and public health;

   Improve access to healthy and affordable foods.
nutrition and public health;   Increase the health of all members of our city.
education; local food culture; Talk together and teach each other about food.

 

City of Revelstoke Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1758

Topic(s): Food Production, Urban Agriculture

Sub-topic(s): urban chickens, livestock

Region: Columbia-Shuswap | Document Type: Regulatory Bylaw | Year: consolidated 2016

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

urban agriculture;

food production;

livestock;

urban chickens;

HENS

A. No person shall own, keep or possess any poultry, except for hens in areas designated for that use in the City’s Zoning Bylaw, as amended from time to time. Hens are permitted in conjunction with a single family dwelling.

B. An Owner who engages in hen-keeping must:

(i) be the registered owner of, and reside at, the property where the hens are kept or obtain written permission from the property owner;

(ii) keep no more than five hens on the property;

(iii) possess a valid hen-keeping license with the Municipality by completing and submitting a registration form and an application form issued by the Municipality

(iv) supply a Hen Enclosure at least 0.9 square metres (9.69 square feet) per hen with any combination of vegetated and bare earth located in a fenced rear yard and/or side yard of the property;

(v) not attach the Hen Enclosure to the Owner’s dwelling;

(vi) not situate the Hen Enclosure within 5 metres (16.4 feet) of a neighbouring dwelling’s window or doors;

(vii) ensure the Hen Enclosure is covered entirely on all sides and the top;

(viii) provide at least one Coop at 0.5 square metre (5.38 square feet) per hen of floor area and no more than 2 metres (6.56 feet) in height, within or connected to the Hen Enclosure. The Coop must contain one perch and one nest box for each hen;

(ix) ensure that the maximum size of the Coop and Hen Enclosure combined is 7.5 square metres (80.73 square feet) in area.

(x) provide each hen with food, water, shelter, light, ventilation, veterinary care, and opportunities for essential behaviours such as scratching, dust-bathing and roosting;

(xi) maintain each Hen Enclosure in good repair and keep the enclosure in sanitary condition, free from vermin and obnoxious smells and substances;

(xii) take steps to reduce wildlife attractants by ensuring feed is enclosed in an airtight container outside of the Hen Enclosure. Store such containers in a location not accessible by wildlife or other animals;

(xiii) eggs are only for personal consumption and not for resale; (xiv) not slaughter a hen on the property or release into the wild; and (xv) not bury a hen on the property.

C. Roosters shall not be kept within the Municipal boundary.

 section 6A - 6C

 

City of Revelstoke Food Charter

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Education, Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Food Self Reliance, Nutrition and Public Health, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Waste Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): composting, soil, community food system education, local food culture, wildlife and ecosystem management, hunting/fishing/gathering, livestock

Region: Columbia-Shuswap | Document Type: Food Charter | Year: 2014

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Topic Sub-Topic Policy or Policy Excerpt
policy partnerships, advocacy and development process;   Consider potential impacts on food security in all government, business and personal decisions.

food sales, access and procurement;


nutrition and public health;

   Improve access to healthy and affordable foods.
food self reliance;   Facilitate household and community-based food production and preservation for self-reliance;

waste management;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

composting;
soil;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 Promote composting and the preservation of healthy soil.
  hunting/fishing/gathering; Encourage responsible and sustainable harvesting of wild foods.
development and productive use ofagricultural land;   Help to preserve regional farmlands and increase use of arable land for sustainable food production.

food production;

   Support local and regional farmers and food producers.

food production;

 livestock; Encourage humane treatment of animals raised for food.
nutrition and public health;   Promote food safety.
education; community food system education; Identify educational opportunities that promote food knowledge.
  local food culture; Celebrate the diversity of our food cultures.
wildlife/environmental/pest management wildlife and ecosystem management; Manage food production in ways that reduce conflict with wildlife.

 

District of Sechelt Bylaw 492, 2010 Official Community Plan

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Economic Development, Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Food Production, Urban - Agriculture Conflict & Edge Planning, Waste Management, Water Management

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, aquaculture, buffer at agricultural edge, commercial development, farm diversification, farm retail/farm gate sales, farmers' markets, food processing, livestock, residential development, roads in agricultural land, urban containment/growth boundary, water rate for agriculture

Region: Sunshine Coast | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2011

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

urban containment/growth boundary;


commercial development;


residential development;

 New residential and commercial development will be focused within the Urban Containment Boundary shown on Schedules B and C. These areas provide more than 20 years supply of residential land to accommodate a mix of housing types in various neighbourhood settings, and to allow the District to concentrate infrastructure spending and community amenities within or near the  Resort Developments 1.1; *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;


urban containment/growth boundary;


ALR;

 Areas outside the Urban Containment Boundary designated as Agricultural, Resource or Rural Residential will be retained as small acreages ranging from .6 ha (1.5 acre) to 2. ha (5.0 acre) lot sizes for Rural Residential lands (see OCP policy 5.8) and 4.0 hectares (10 acres )for Resource or Agricultural (ALR) lands.  These lands are not intended to develop within the next 15-20 years, and will not be considered for residential development until lands within the Urban Containment Boundary are substantially built out and development is intensified within the Downtown Centre and neighbourhood centres. 1.5; *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;


ALR;

 Within the Agriculture and Resource designations, a minimum parcel size of at least 4.0 hectares applies to lands within the ALR, Provincial Forest or other forestry tenure. For lands outside these tenures, a minimum parcel size of 2.0 hectares will apply. The District will review the zoning bylaw to implement these lot sizes. 
 		 8.3; *

food processing, storage and distribution;

food sales, access and procurement;

economic development;;

farmers' markets;


food processing;


farm retail/farm gate sales;


farm diversification;


agri-tourism;

 Growth, diversification and development of the local agricultural economy is supported, including farming and associated activities such as farm-gate marketing, farmer’s markets, value-added agricultural processing, and agri-tourism opportunities that are ancillary to farming and support the viability of the farm use.
 		 8.4;  

water management;

waste management;

water rate for agriculture;

 Infrastructure policies such as reduced water rates or use of biosolids that will benefit agricultural production are supported. 8.5;  

development and productive use of agricultural land;

   Intrusions of urban infrastructure into agricultural areas will be minimized. 8.6;  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

roads in agricultural land;


buffer at agricultural edge;


residential development;

Residential developments abutting agricultural land will be required to reduce potential conflicts between residential and agricultural uses by:

(a) Designing road access to direct traffic away from agricultural land;

(b) Using larger lot sizes along the interface with farming to provide for greater separation;

(c) Providing screening and landscaping buffers within the residential development to protect residents from agricultural activities;

(d) Increased building setbacks for residential buildings along the agricultural edge; and

(e) Provide a drainage study prepared by a Professional Engineer to ensure runoff from the proposed development does not affect agricultural land.

 8.7; *
food production;

aquaculture;

livestock;

 Land-based aquaculture is supported in appropriate locations as a means of enhancing local food production.
 		 8.8;  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;


ALR;

 The District of Sechelt does not support the exclusion of lands from the ALR except where approved by the Agricultural Land Commission. The District may require that equivalent land areas be added to the ALR to compensate for any lands removed.
 		 8.10;  

 

District of Lillooet Zoning Bylaw No 400, 2011 Schedule A

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Food Production, Urban - Agriculture Conflict & Edge Planning

Sub-topic(s): buffer at agricultural edge, livestock, siting and coverage, zoning

Region: Squamish-Lillooet | Document Type: Zoning Bylaw | Year: 2011

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Topic Sub-Topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning; buffer at agricultural edge;

 Buffers

1. Any commercial, industrial or residential land use abutting an agricultural zone including land in the ALR shall provide and maintain a buffer on the non-agricultural side of the lot boundary that complies with the requirements of the Agricultural Land Commission’s Landscape Buffer Specifications, ALC 1993.

2. Resource extraction activities as permitted by the relevant agency of the Provincial Government shall require a buffer to be maintained on all lot boundaries, except that where a lot abuts a right of way or easement for public or quasi-public purposes, which is contiguous with a highway, such right of way or easement may be deemed to be within the lot for purposes of establishing the buffer area.

.1 The depth of buffer required in the case of any resource extraction activities as permitted by the relevant agency of the Provincial Government shall be 30 meters [100 ft].

.2 The depth of a buffer required in the case of a landfill shall be 60 meters [200 ft].

3. Within a buffer area:

.1 No building or structure may be erected or placed, except a fence, a wall, or in the case of that part of the buffer area contiguous with the highway, identification signs.

.2 No garbage disposal area and no vehicle parking area shall be located.

.3 Except where danger or a road is involved, no plant material may be removed, nor may any substance of which land is composed be deposited or removed except as part of a recognizable beautification scheme.

.4 The only roads permitted in the buffer areas are those which cross it as close to right angles as practicable and connect directly with the road system contained within the remainder of the lot.

 4.20
food production; livestock;

Keeping of Animals

1. The keeping of animals, where permitted, shall be subject to the following regulations:

.1 On any parcel 2.0 ha or less in area, the total number of livestock, must not exceed one (1) animal unit for each 0.2 ha of parcel area;

.2 despite Section 4.31.1, on any parcel 0.4 ha or less in area, the total number of poultry and/or fur bearing animals shall not exceed twenty-five (25).

.3 All structures, pens, runs, enclosures and manure piles shall in addition be located to the satisfaction of the Medical Health Officer in respect of all nearby wells, lakes, streams, springs, groundwater or other bodies of water which in his opinion could suffer contamination therefrom and subject to the regulation of the Waste Management Act.

 4.31
development and productive use of agricultural land; siting and coverage; See Agricultural and Rural Resource Zones for siting. section 8

 

The Corporation of the District of Maple Ridge Zoning Bylaw No.3510

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Food Production, Urban Agriculture

Sub-topic(s): beekeeping/apiculture, pollinators, zoning, greenhouses, covenants, livestock, siting and coverage, farm worker accommodation, residential development

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Zoning Bylaw | Year: consolidated 2013

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Topic Sub-Topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

food production;

urban agriculture;

 beekeeping/apiculture;
pollinators;
livestock;

Hobby Beekeeping Use

Where permitted a Hobby Beekeeping use is subject to the following provisions:

a) A maximum of two (2) hives per property shall be permitted;

b) Bee Hives for a Hobby Beekeeper use shall be located to the rear of the principal building on the lot;

c) Hives must: (i) be raised a minimum of 2.5 metres above grade; or (ii) be behind a solid fence or hedge a minimum of 2.0 metres in height located parallel to an adjacent property line and extending a minimum of 6.0 metres horizontally beyond the hive in either direction. (iii) be oriented with the hive entrance facing towards the centre of the property.

 402 (12);
development and productive use of agricultural land; farm worker accommodation;
covenants;
residential development;

(3) An Accessory Employee Residential Use

(a) shall be permitted on a lot with a minimum area of 2 hectares; except where a lot is designated on the Official Community Plan for "Agricultural" or "Rural Residential" use, the minimum lot area shall be 1.7 hectares;

(b) shall be limited to a lot classified as farmland under the Assessment Act;

(c) shall be limited to one accessory employee residential dwelling per lot;

(d) shall not be permitted unless there is registered in the Land Title Office a restrictive covenant in respect of any Accessory Employee Residential dwelling restricting such dwelling to an Accessory Employee Residential use;

(e) the restrictive covenant referred to in this sub-section shall be registered in the Land Title Office with the consent of the registered owner of the lands against which it is charged and in priority to any other encumbrance or charge, save and except any reservation in the original Crown Grant or any Easement, Right-of-way or other restrictive covenant.

 502 (3);
food production; livestock; (4) An Agricultural Use that involves the keeping of mink or swine shall not be permitted on a lot of less than 4 hectares. 502 (4)
development and productive use of agricultural land; siting and coverage; See document for siting of buildings and structures in agricultual zones. 503
food production; greenhouses; See document for regulations for Intensive Greenhouse District. 504
development and productive use of agricultural land;   See document for regulations for Agriculture Only Zones. 505

 

Salt Spring Island Local Trust Committee Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 434, Volume 1: Land Use and Servicing Objectives

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

Sub-topic(s): 'benefit to agriculture' language, agri-tourism, agricultural advisory committee, ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, amenity density zoning/contributions, buffer at agricultural edge, climate change and greenhouse gases, commercial development, crops, demonstration farm, farm worker accommodation, farmers' markets, food processing, food storage, GE/GMO, irrigation and drainage, livestock, research and data collection, residential development, roads in agricultural land, seeds, transfer of development potential, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

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
wildlife/environmental/pest management; climate change and greenhouse gases; The Local Trust Committee should support local food production as a significant factor in reducing food transportation costs and greenhouse gas emissions. A.6.2.15  
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

zoning;

agricultural advisory committee;

agricultural-government liaising;

 The Local Trust Committee should maintain an Agricultural Advisory Committee to:
a. provide community advice about bylaw changes, applications for rezoning or subdivision, and applications to the Agricultural Land Commission. b. help in developing and interpreting local policies about farming. c. identify other ways that the Local Trust Committee can encourage and support farming in the community.		 B.6.2.2.1  

food processing,storage and distribution;

development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

food processing;

food storage;

ALR;

 The Local Trust Committee will not make changes to local bylaws to prohibit or restrict farming in the Agricultural Land Reserve or in areas where farming is now allowed, or that are obstacles to the creation of local abattoirs, cold storage facilities, or other facilities that would improve local food security. B.6.2.2.6 *

food processing,storage and distribution;

food sales, access and procurement;

food production;

economic development;

zoning;

farmers' markets;

food processing;

food storage;

farm worker accommodation;

ALR;

residential development;

agri-tourism;

agricultural advisory committee;

research and data collection;

livestock;

 On the advice of the Agricultural Advisory Committee, the Local Trust Committee should continue to support local farming by:
a. addressing the need for additional housing on agricultural land.
b. permitting appropriate farm uses as defined by the Agricultural Land Reserve Act and Regulations.
c. recognizing the traditional uses of the property owned by the Salt Spring Island Farmer's
Institute on Rainbow Road.
d. allowing for the processing and warehousing of island farm products on the Institute's
property.
e. supporting zoning that would allow various forms of community farming activities.
f. supporting the development of farmers' markets.
g. considering changes to the Land Use Bylaw, based on the objectives of the Area Farm Plan
and in consultation with the Agricultural Land Commission and the Ministry of Agriculture and
Lands, to permit additional dwellings for farm workers.
h. considering changes to the Land Use Bylaw to further support agri-tourism.
i. supporting all efforts to ensure a viable local livestock industry.
j. updating agricultural information, monitoring changes in the agricultural sector and helping to
identify unused or available farmland.		 B.6.2.2.7 *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 'benefit to agriculture' language;

 The minimum average size of lots that can be created by subdivision in the Agriculture and Watershed-Agriculture Designation will remain the same as permitted by existing zoning. The Local Trust Committee could consider amending the minimum size of individual lots, if such a change would benefit local farming or protect agricultural land by allowing clustered development. Background Note: The minimum parcel sizes and minimum average parcel sizes outlined in the Land Use Bylaw apply only when land is:
a. excluded from the Agricultural Land Reserve, or
b. approved for subdivision by the Agricultural Land Commission. An exception to the minimum lot sizes can be made where a home site is being created for a relative as outlined in Section 946 of the Local Government Act. Such subdivisions must also be approved by the Agricultural Land Commission.		 B.6.2.2.8 *

food processing, storage and distribution;

economic development;

waste management;

zoning;

food processing;

demonstration farm;

agri-tourism;

ALR;

 The Local Trust Committee could consider changing zoning to permit the following land uses, where permitted by the Agricultural Land Reserve Act or regulations, on individual properties in the Agriculture Designation: small-scale processing and sales of island-grown forest products; farming schools; farm-based tourist accommodation; waste management facilities. Such uses should only be allowed where farming capability is minimal and the planned use would not interfere with land productivity. Preference should be given to proposals that would improve the viability of an existing farm operation. B.6.2.2.9  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

transfer of development potential;

 The Local Trust Committee should consider rezoning applications from property owners with productive agricultural land outside the Agricultural Land Reserve who wish to transfer their development potential to maintain their farm. Such Land could be considered a Development Potential Donor Area, despite the development potential transfer status of the Designation it is in. Such applications should follow the guidelines in Appendix 4.  B.6.2.2.10  
food processing, storage and distribution;

zoning;

food processing;

food storage;

amenity density zoning/contributions;

 The Local Trust Committee could consider rezoning applications to allow higher density in exchange for community owned farmland or land for community farm product processing or storage facilities. Such applications should follow the guidelines in Appendix 3. Such land is an
eligible community amenity, which could be exchanged for a higher density of development as outlined in Appendix 3.		 B.6.2.2.11  
development and productive use of agricultural land; ALR; The Local Trust Committee will support the inclusion of agricultural land within the Agricultural Land Reserve.
 		 B.6.2.2.12 *
development and productive use of agricultural land; ALr subdivision;  The Local Trust Committee could support applications to the Agricultural Land Commission to subdivide land within the Agricultural Land Reserve if:
a. the subdivision results in improved farming capability or production on all proposed lots in a way that would be impossible without subdivision.
b. the subdivision is to provide a house site up to 0.6 ha in size for an adult relative of the property owner, as defined by Section 946 of the Local Government Act and the parcel was held by that owner (or a blood relation) before the adoption of the Agricultural Land Commission Act on December 21,1972.
c. the subdivision is clearly in the public interest consistent with other objectives of this Plan		 B.6.2.2.13  
development and productive use of agricultural land; roads in agricultural land; The Local Trust Committee should only support the use of lands in the Agriculture or Watershed Agriculture Designations for road access to other lands if the proposed road does not interfere with farming capability.  B.6.2.2.14 *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR;

'benefit to agriculture' language;

 The Local Trust Committee could support applications to the Agricultural Land Commission for non-farm use or exclusion of land within the Agricultural Land Reserve in some situations where local farming or the greater community would benefit. Support for such applications should only be considered if the application has been referred to the Agricultural Advisory Committee and falls into one of the following categories:
a. the proposed non-farm use or exclusion would allow an active farm to diversify and broaden its income, but not decrease the farming capability of the property.
b. the proposed non-farm use or exclusion is consistent with local zoning or a land use designation or policy in this Plan, including policies B.3.3.2.10 and B.7.2.2.7.
c. in the instance of a proposed exclusion, the Local Trust Committee may consider an application that would result in inclusion of existing non-ALR farmland into the ALR.
d. the non-farm use or exclusion of property for essential community services, if the location of the service is limited by engineering constraints, or by strategic considerations such as those that determine the best location for an emergency response station, and the proponent has demonstrated that there is no suitable alternate, non-ALR property. Background Note: This policy suggests the types of applications to the Agricultural Land Commission which could be supported by the Local Trust Committee. However, the final decision regarding all such applications rests with the Commission.]		 B.6.2.2.15  
water management;

zoning;

irrigation and drainage;

agricultural advisory committee;

agricultural-government liaising;

 When it considers rezoning applications that are not related to farming, the Local Trust Committee will ensure the availability of water for farming would not be reduced because of a zoning change. If a rezoning application would result in an increase in water use, the Local Trust Committee will ask the Agricultural Advisory Committee for advice about the potential impacts on farming. B.6.2.2.16  

water management;

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

stormwater management;

 The Local Trust Committee encourages subdivision layouts that reduce the potential for conflict with farming. When subdivisions are proposed for land that drains towards agricultural lands, the staff shall request that the Subdivision Approving Officer consider how changes to natural drainage patterns could affect agricultural activities. Such applications may be referred to the Agricultural Advisory Committee for advice and the Advisory Committee's suggestions for the protection of farming operations will be forwarded to the Subdivision Approving Officer for consideration.
 		 B.6.2.2.17  

water management;

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

zoning;

stormwater management;

buffer at agricultural edge;

 When it considers rezoning applications for land that borders or drains into agricultural land, the Local Trust Committee will ensure that zoning changes are not made in a way that would have a negative effect on farming. For example, the Committee could require that a vegetation buffer be maintained on land that is being rezoned next to farm land, if the proposed use could result in conflicts with a farming operation. The Committee should also ensure that a zoning change would not result in detrimental changes to natural drainage or pollution of water supplies. The Agricultural Advisory Committee will be asked for advice about rezoning applications on land that borders or drains into agricultural land. B.6.2.2.18 8
development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

commercial development;

institutional development;

residential development;

 Zoning changes should not be made to allow large new multi-family, industrial, institutional or commercial developments in the Agriculture or Watershed-Agriculture Designation. An exception could be considered for community facilities or limited industrial zoning that would provide broad
benefits to the community and are specifically mentioned in this Plan.		 B.6.2.2.19 *

food production;

GE/GMO;

seeds;

crops;

 The Local Trust Committee will support efforts to discourage the use of genetically engineered seeds or plants for locally grown products B.6.2.2.30  
water management;

zoning;

irrigation and drainage;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 

 When considering rezoning applications, the Local Trust Committee should consider the impacts of the proposed new use on existing wells, springs, or other water supplies. If the proposed use is expected to need more water than the uses already allowed on the property, then the Committee should ask for evidence that wells or other water supplies in the neighbourhood would not be depleted. The Committee should also consider whether water use would affect agricultural activities or deplete any springs necessary to maintain fish habitat. Should a zoning change be proposed where groundwater supplies are not adequate, the applicant could be encouraged to find other means of supplying water. Rainwater catchment or a water conservation program could be considered. C.3.3.2.2  

 

 

 

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;  

 

Town of Smithers Zoning Bylaw No. 1403

Topic(s): Food Production

Sub-topic(s): zoning, livestock, siting and coverage, ALR

Region: Bulkeley-Nechako | Document Type: Zoning Bylaw | Year: consolidated 2015

View policy:  HTML PDF

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

siting and coverage;

ALR:

 See document for siting and coverage regulations for agricultural zones. 3.1.2
food production;

livestock;

ALR;

 In respect of an agricultural use: (a) no person shall keep livestock on a parcel which is less than 0.4 hectares in area; (b) on parcels which are 0.4 to 2 hectares in area, no person shall keep more than 1 horse, 2 cattle, and 12 poultry for each 0.4 hectares of parcel area. 3.1.3

 

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