City of Victoria Sign Bylaw NO. 14-097

Topic(s): Food Sales, Access & Procurement

Sub-topic(s): farmers' markets, signage in agricultural areas

Region: Capital | Document Type: Regulatory Bylaw | Year: amendment 2016

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An amendment to the Sign Bylaw allowing for permanent farmers market signage.

Note: The available consolidation of the Sign Bylaw (last consolidated 2015) available here excludes this amendment.

Township of Langley Agricultural Viability (Phase 3)

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

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, agricultural advisory committee, ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, amenity density zoning/contributions, buffer at agricultural edge, commercial development, community food system education, covenants, emergency preparedness, farm retail/farm gate sales, farm worker accommodation, farmers' markets, food processing, irrigation and drainage, livestock, local food culture, new entrants to farming, nuisance complaints, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, recreational use of agricultural land, residential development, roads in agricultural land, signage in agricultural areas, water restrictions and conservation, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Agriculture Area Plan/Strategy | Year: 2013

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Encourage regional, provincial, and federal governments to establish agricultural policies and protocols that are sensitive to the needs of farm producers and processors (AAC, EDD, commodity groups) 2.1.1
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Support participating in regional and provincial discussions where agriculture is encouraged (AAC) 2.1.1
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Support positive staff contact with individuals and all industry groups, including agriculture, wishing to expand or establish  their businesses (AAC, EDAC) 2.1.1

education;

economic development;

   Support increasing staff knowledge about agriculture by supporting staff training and attendance at relevant agricultural workshops and seminars (AAC). Assess current expectations of various services to agriculture and determine resources that may be necessary to assist the industry with appropriate economic development and support (AAC, EDD)  2.1.1
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Support partnerships with other organizations and agencies and working together to enhance agricultural production in the Township and the region (AAC, farm community, commodity groups, other agencies)  2.1.3
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; agricultural advisory committee; Support having an active and effective Agricultural Advisory Committee (AAC) 2.1.2
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; agricultural advisory committee; Support ongoing monitoring by the Agricultural Advisory Committee of selected indicators affecting agriculture in the Township (AAC, staff) Request an annual work plan from the Agricultural Advisory Committee and ensure an appropriate budget for completion of the work plan
 		 2.1.2
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; agricultural advisory committee; Provide reports on agricultural activities and update the Agricultural Profile as appropriate (AAC, IAF) 2.1.2
economic development;   Support the agricultural industry as an important economic contributor to the Township economy (AAC, EDD, EDAC, commodity groups) 2.1.4
education; agricultural advisory committee; Support the annual farm tour organized and conducted by the Agricultural Advisory Committee and the Langley Environmental Partners Society (AAC) 2.1.4
education; local food culture; Encourage additional cultural and heritage events related to food and culinary products and agricultural background of the community 2.1.4
First Nations and indigenous food systems;   Support First Nations agricultural development on First Nations land within the Township 2.1.4
  emergency preparedness; Support working with all relevant government agencies and agricultural groups and associations to address crises and disasters affecting the agricultural and rural community
(BCMA, PEP, farm community)		 2.1.5
  emergency preparedness; Support emergency planning at the Township and Provincial levels to address flooding issues and concerns (BCMA, PEP, farm community, Drainage and Dyking Committee)  2.1.5
education;   Encourage the students of School District #35, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, and Trinity Western University to consider seasonal or temporary agricultural employment in conjunction with their studies (AAC, School District #35, KPU, TWU, farm community) 2.1.7
education;   Encourage local educational institutions to promote work experiences on local farms to their students (AAC, farm community, educators) 2.1.7
   farm worker accommodation; Encourage non-permanent housing for seasonal or temporary workers that conforms to the Ministry of Agriculture’s Guidelines for the Provision of Seasonal Housing for Migrant Farm Workers in BC and that conforms to amendments to the Township’s Zoning Bylaw (AAC)  2.1.7
development and productive use of agricultural land;   Support the promotion of farming options to owners of smaller parcel land in the ALR that is not being farmed (AAC, IAF) 2.1.8
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

residential development;

 Support agricultural production on ALR land where residential use may be the primary use (AAC, land owners). 2.1.8
development and productive use of agricultural land;   Support agricultural production on Township land or land owned by other governments where practical and possible (AAC)  2.1.8

education;

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

 nuisance complaints; Support efforts of the BC Ministry of Agriculture and the agricultural industry to inform the public about normal farm practices occurring on area farms (AAC, BCMA, farm community) 2.1.9

education;

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

covenants;

commercial development;

residential development;

nuisance complaints;

 Support the use of a Restrictive Covenant, using Section 219 of the Land Title Act, on all new residential and commercial parcels adjacent to agricultural properties notifying purchasers that the use of their property may be impacted by normal farm practices (AAC) 2.1.9

education;

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

 nuisance complaints; Encourage area realtors to ensure purchasers of properties adjacent to, or in close proximity to, active farm operations are aware of normal farm practices protected from bylaw enforcement or private nuisance suits by the Farm Practices Protection Act (AAC, FVREB) 2.1.9
education; community food system education; Support the BC Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation’s “Agriculture in the Classroom” program to educate young people about farming (School District #35, farm community) 2.1.9
economic development; agri-tourism; Encourage agri-tourism and culinary tourism (AAC, Tourism Langley, EDAC) 2.1.11

economic development;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 agri-tourism; Support organizations working to increase agri-tourism and culinary tourism in the Township such as Circle Farm Tours and the Fraser Valley Farm Direct Marketing Association (EDAC, AAC, Tourism Langley)  2.1.11
education;   Recognize the importance of education and training for the growth and development of the agricultural sector in the Township (School District #35, KPU, TWU, AAC) 2.1.12
education;   Support additional education and training for local farmers and others interested in agriculture (AAC, educators)  2.1.12
  new entrants to farming; Support efforts to encourage people to enter farming, through the work of educational institutions and the farm community (AAC, educators, commodity groups) 2.1.13
  amenity density zoning/contributions; Consider amenity bonuses for the agricultural industry where reasonable and possible (AAC, other municipal committees)  2.1.14
water management; water restrictions and conservation; Support water conservation by all citizens 2.2.1
water management; irrigation and drainage; Support the provision of sufficient water for agriculture for all farms practicing efficient water use (AAC) 2.2.1
water management; irrigation and drainage; Support appropriate ways to measure water use (Property owners, AAC)  2.2.1
water management; irrigation and drainage; Encourage farmers unprotected by the dyke system to be aware of the dangers from flooding and to take the steps necessary to minimize risk to their families and farm operations (AAC, BCMA) 2.2.2
water management; irrigation and drainage; Support the maintenance and upgrading of the dykes and other related infrastructure (AAC) 2.2.2

water management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 irrigation and drainage; Encourage senior governments to protect all farm land from flooding using appropriate dykes and other methods (AAC, BCMoE, BCMA) 2.2.2

water management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 irrigation and drainage; Work closely with the farm community to ensure ditch drainage and maintenance address farmer needs (AAC, DDC) 2.2.3
water management; irrigation and drainage; Support ditch drainage and maintenance activities that are environmentally sustainable (DDC) 2.2.3
water management; irrigation and drainage; Encourage farmers who practice management strategies on their farms to reduce the levels of vegetative growth occurring in ditches (AAC)  2.2.3
development and productive use of agricultural land;

roads in agricultural land;

ALR;

 Require Agricultural Impact Assessments (see 2.3.1) be completed for new roads within the Agricultural Land Reserve.  2.2.4
development and productive use of agricultural land; roads in agricultural land; Review rural road standards for arterial and collector roads to ensure that road development meets the growing road demand and has proper lighting and traffic control (AAC)
 		 2.2.4
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; signage in agricultural areas; Support appropriate agricultural signage in the Township (AAC) 2.2.4

food production;

food processing, storage, and distribution;

   Support food processing on area farms when consistent with the Agricultural Land Commission Act and Regulations (AAC, ALC) 2.2.5
food processing, storage, and distribution;

food processing;

ALR;

 Support efforts to attract food processors to the Township and work with interested processors to provide the infrastructure needs of larger-scale food processing industries within existing and future industrial parks (EDD, AAC, EDAC)
 		 2.2.5
food processing, storage, and distribution; food processing; Support the use of food hubs or clustering, where relevant, as a strategy for increasing agricultural production in the Township (AAC, EDD, BCMA, LSAF) 2.2.5
food sales, access and production;

farmers' markets;

 farm retail/farm gate sales;

 Support the efforts of local farmers in making their products available for local purchase from the farm gate, through farmers’ markets, or in cooperation with other local retailers(AAC, farm community 2.2.5
food sales, access and production;

farmers' markets;

 farm retail/farm gate sales;

 Encourage the establishment of appropriate farmers’ markets in the Township (AAC, EDD)  2.2.5
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; recreational use of agricultural land; Support multi-use trails in or adjacent to agricultural land when implementation takes into consideration concerns of the agricultural community and minimizing conflict (AAC, Parks and Recreation, BCMA, ALC) 2.2.7
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

agricultural advisory committee;

 Support seeking advice from its Agricultural Advisory Committee for all applications for removal, boundary adjustment, sub-division or non-farm use on land within the Agricultural Land Reserve (AAC) 2.3.1
 

ALR exclusion;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

agricultural advisory committee;

 Support providing input to the Agricultural Land Commission on applications for exclusion, boundary adjustment, non-farm use and subdivision in the Agricultural Land Reserve as to their benefits to agriculture (AAC)  2.3.1
development and productive use of agricultural land; zoning; Encourage agricultural use for all land zoned for agriculture and within the Agricultural Land Reserve (AAC, BCMA, ALC)
 		 2.3.3
  zoning; Continue to review rural zones within Zoning Bylaw No. 2500 to reduce the number of zones and provide consistency with the BC Ministry of Agriculture's Guide for Bylaw Development in Farming Areas (BCMA, ALC) 2.3.3
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;   Support the concentration of new urban growth within the six existing established urban centres in the Township The Township of Langley, in the medium term and ongoing, 2.3.4
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; ALR; Support strategies for edge planning in areas of the Township where the Agricultural Land Reserve abuts non-ALR land (AAC, BCMA, ALC) 2.3.4
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

buffer at agricultural edge;

ALR;

 Encourage citizens residing in the ALR, but not farming, to consider appropriate buffering or residential site planning on their land where it may abut active and productive farming operations (AAC,
BCMA, ALC)		 2.3.4
waste management;   Encourage farmers to reduce, or eliminate, open air burning when diseased crops are not present and where recycling programs for the material exist (AAC) 2.4.1
waste management;   Support the use of air curtain incinerators (mainly suitable for large burns) and other technological options by farmers who are committed to open air burning for diseased crops (AAC, BCMA) 2.4.1
waste management;   Support the burning of regular agricultural waste when it cannot be recycled and when all bylaw considerations are being followed (AAC) 2.4.1
education;   Encourage all farmers to ensure those applying chemicals on their farms have the required training for the application and use of chemicals (AAC, BCMA) 2.4.2

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 wildlife and ecosystem management; Support working with farmers and other rural landowners, agricultural and wildlife organizations, and agencies to identify farming practices that enhance wildlife and wildlife habitat (AAC, LEPS,BCMA, BCMoE, farm community) 2.4.3

water management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

 wildlife and ecosystem management; Work closely with the farm community regarding farming near watercourses to balance farming requirements with the requirements for safe water (AAC, BCMA) 2.4.4
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Support farmers using best management practices for activities that may impact the quality of surface and groundwater such as proper storage of manure and wood waste, fuel storage, compost sites building locations and livestock access to surface water courses (AAC, BCMA, IAF) 2.4.4
wildlife/environmental/pest management; livestock; Support livestock farmers, and other farmers that use manure on their properties, having a nutrient management plan in place to identify farm wastes and how they are to be treated. 2.4.5
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Support the Environmental Farm Plan Program and encourage all area farmers to participate in the program (AAC, BCMA, AAFC) 2.4.6
wildlife/environmental/pest management;   Support the principle of farmer compensation when there is an environmental benefit to the Township, when funding sources are available, and when the investments undertaken on farms exceed existing requirements of law and regulation and result in benefits to citizens at large (AAC) 2.4.7

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

City of Abbotsford Agriculture Strategy

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, Waste Management, Water Management, Wildlife/Environmental/Pest Management

Sub-topic(s): water rate for agriculture, zoning, ALR, tax mechanisms, new entrants to farming, agricultural industry services, climate change and greenhouse gases, agri-tourism, agricultural impact assessment, gravel extraction, leasing of land for agriculture, waste to energy, composting, 'benefit to agriculture' language, roads in agricultural land, farm traffic, wildlife and ecosystem management, BC environmental farm plan, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, community food system education, signage in agricultural areas, irrigation and drainage, research and data collection, siting and coverage, farmers' markets, farm worker accommodation, residential development, urban gardens/orchard

Region: Fraser Valley | Document Type: Agriculture Area Plan/Strategy | Year: 2011

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
water management;

water rate for agriculture;

ALR;

 Decouple rural servicing rates to non-agricultural farmland uses in the ALR from
preferential rates in support of agriculture		 5.1 ( c)
  zoning; tax mechanisms; Develop a more contemporary definition of agriculture, with taxation implications, to
support market opportunities in the peri-urban region		 5.1 (d)
education; new entrants to farming;  Pursue initiatives to train young people and attract new entrants into agriculture 5.1 (g)

food processing, storage and distribution;

development and productive use of agricultural land;

agricultural industry services;

ALR;

 Facilitate ancillary developments on agricultural lands in the ALR 5.1 (h)
waste management; education;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

research and data collection;

 Pursue research into processes and technology innovations that address agricultural issues including: management of agricultural by-products, energy production, agricultural responses to climate change, agronomic impacts of gravel extraction, eco-industrial technologies and solutions, agriculture-related problems and science based solutions 5.1 (i)
economic development; research and data collection; Utilize the City’s Agricultural Trust fund to further agricultural investment, research and innovation 5.1 (j)

Food sales, access and procurement;

economic development;

farmers' markets;

agri-tourism;

 Pursue strategies to promote the local food system, such as the development of a permanent Farmers Market and other marketing facilities, and integrating agro-tourism into the City’s tourism theme 5.1 (k)
 

farm worker accommodation;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Work with industry and government agencies to support the employment of seasonal and foreign agricultural workers, with respect to working conditions, accommodations, cultural services and accessibility to workers. 5.1 (l)
 

agricultural impact assessment;

gravel extraction; 

 Require agricultural impact assessments and reclamation plans for gravel extraction
projects, to be submitted to the City prior to extraction		 5.2 (b)
land access; leasing of land for agriculture; Support the leasing of farmland (including the existing MLS system) with additional
mechanisms (agreement templates, websites and incentives) that identify potential
landlords and tenants.		 5.2 (c )
development and productive use of agricultural land;

roads in agriclutural land;

siting and coverage;

 Consider ways of reducing wasteful use of agricultural land for excessive building footprints, access roads, and inappropriate siting 5.2 (f)
development and productive use of agricultural land;

tax mechanisms;

residential development;

 nvestigate creating a tax classification to tax rural residential at urban residential rates 5.2 (g)
development and productive use of agricultural land; residential development;  Consider ways of tightening rural residential eligibility for farm classification. 5.2 (h)
waste management; agricultural industry services; Consider centralized sites for pursuing industry solutions and enabling farm and
processing (organic and non-organic) wastes to be handled together		 5.3 (a)
waste management; waste to energy; Explore synergies between waste management and energy production 5.3 (b)
waste management;

composting;

'net benefit to agriculture' language;

waste to energy;

 Support cost efficient waste management solutions (such as anaerobic digestion,
gasification, composting, recycling, etc.), provided these solutions offer a net benefit to
agriculture and do not negatively impact the environment.		 5.3 (c )
waste management;  research and data collection; Encourage and attract research and investigation into eco-industrial technologies and
solutions. 		 5.3 (d)
  agricultural industry services; Continue to attract agri-industrial investment to industrial-business lands 5.4 (a)
development and productive use of agricultural land; agricultural industry services; In consultation with the ALC, investigate the feasibility of developing agri-industrial uses
in the ALR in relation to farms, servicing and transportation infrastructure, and City-led
agri-industrial investment policies and initiatives		 5.4 (c )
economic development; research and data collection; Explore opportunities to attract agri-industrial research, technology, expertise, and
funding into the City		 5.4 (d)
  agricultural industry services; Pursue the development of an agri-food technology cluster in the City directly connected
to the agricultural production base. 		 5.4 (g)
water management; irrigation and drainage;  Encourage farmers to develop irrigation plans to quantify water needs and assist the City
in water supply planning		 5.5 (a)

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

development and productive use of agricultural land;

road in agricultural land; farm traffic;

ALR;

 Plan transportation corridors in the ALR to facilitate access to farmland, minimize
disruptions to farming operations and reducing vehicle conflicts		 5.5 (b)
  irrigation and drainage; Investigate providing infrastructure bundles (water, sewer, electrical, hook-up to the grid)
to areas suited/targeted for certain types of agriculture		 5.5 (c)
water management; irrigation and drainage; Improve the ability of drainage systems to eliminate flooding of agricultural lands from
upland storm water runoff. 		 5.5 (g)
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

BC environmental farm plan;

 Promote and support completion of environmental farm plans and use of Beneficial
Management Practices (BMPs) to improve agricultural operations and provide
environmental benefits		 5.6 (a)

water management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

irrigation and drainage;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;;

  Continue to promote farmer’s interests with agencies regulating maintenance of
drainage, irrigation and flood control systems		 5.6 (b)
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;;

 Designate City staff positions to strengthen understandings and relationships between
farmers and government (economic development officer for agriculture, agricultural
liaisons)		 5.6 (c)

water management;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;;

 Involve the City in reviews and processes dealing with agency regulations affecting
agriculture and in developing more ‘agriculture-friendly’ protocols for ditch and drainage
maintenance		 5.6 (d)
education; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Raise awareness of farmers on the requirements of senior legislation (e.g., provide
presentations to DDI and ASCA AGMs, prepare brochures, etc.)		 5.6 (e)
water management; irrigation and drainage; Develop agriculture-friendly scheduling processes to minimize impacts on agriculture
and facilitate City access onto private land for the purposes of ditch and drainage
maintenance		 5.6 (f)

policy partnerships,

advocacy and development;

 partnerships/advocacy/liaising;; Create an agricultural variance committee to deal with special circumstances where the City of Abbotsford has jurisdiction 5.6 (g)
education; community food system education; Enhance agriculture education at schools 5.7 (a)

urban agriculture;

education;

urban gardens/orchard;

community food systems education;

 Support community gardens and/or urban agriculture demonstration projects and programs that promote agricultural awareness among City residents 5.7 (b)
education; community food systems education; Improve local business awareness of agriculture 5.7 (c)

education;

economic development;

signage in agricultural areas;

community food systems education;

agri-tourism;

 Create signage that identifies agricultural sub-areas or “neighbourhoods” within the City,
what is grown there, among other things, provides directional signage for agri-tourism,
and directs motorists to respect farm traffic		 5.7 (d)

City of Richmond Agricultural Viability Strategy

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

Sub-topic(s): agricultural advisory committee, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, 'benefit to agriculture' language, agricultural impact assessment, research and data collection, irrigation and drainage, signage in agricultural areas, farm traffic, roads in agricultural land, nuisance complaints, covenants, buffer at agricultural edge, wildlife and ecosystem management, local food culture, agricultural industry services, greenhouses, zoning, farm diversification, new entrants to farming

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Agriculture Area Plan/Strategy | Year: 2003

View policy:  HTML PDF

Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document location
policy partnerships. advocacy and development;;

agricultural advisory committee;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Establish a City Agricultural Advisory Committee of Council (AAC).
a) Have the AAC play the key advisory role in implementing the AVS;
b) Require all City departments to seek input from the AAC when major departmental initiatives are proposed as part of their planning strategy, where agriculture is affected;...See document for details.		 1
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

ALR subdivision;

ALR exclusion;

'benefit to agriculture' language;

 Maintain the existing ALR boundary and ALR land base in Richmond, and do not support a change to the ALR boundary or a loss of ALR land unless: 
•  there is a substantial net benefit to agriculture; and  
•  the agricultural stakeholders are fully consulted		 2
policy partnerships. advocacy and development;;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Designate various City Staff as Agricultural Liaisons (SALs), with the Policy Planning Department Liaison as the lead SAL to ensure coordination... See document for details. 3

development and productive use of agricultural land;

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

agricultural impact assessment;

ALR;

 Introduce an Agricultural Impact Assessment process (AIA). 
a) Use the AIA for all proposed projects involving land use changes or development: 
i) Within the ALR; 
ii) Adjacent to the ALR;  
iii) Outside the ALR for projects which may have an impact on agriculture, such as transportation corridors, recreational trails, new residential developments, and others. 
b) Develop criteria, (e.g. drainage/irrigation implications, air quality, noise, transportation and traffic, and others), for the AIA in conjunction with BCMAFF, the ALC, the proposed AAC 
(see Recommendation 1), and others as appropriate		 4
  research and data collection;

Maintain an Agricultural Data System.

a) Update and expand the scope of the Agricultural Profile, the Agricultural Land Use Inventory, and the Geographic Information System every three years or sooner to maintain current information about the agricultural sector; ...See document for details.

 5
policy partnerships. advocacy and development; parnterships.advocacy/liaising; Encourage regular communication among the agricultural sector and the City, provincial and federal servicing and infrastructure departments by formalizing the City Staff-Farmer Drainage Committee and by establishing terms of reference and involving the agricultural sector, Engineering and Public Works Division, and others as appropriate (e.g. Policy Planning, Environmental Programs, Transportation, etc.).  6
water management;

ALR;

irrigation and drainage;

 Support the City’s Master Drainage Plan.
a) Identify and ensure that drainage improvements to the ALR occur in order of priority and according to ARDSA performance standards;
b) Ensure that drainage improvements are considered in a comprehensive manner in consultation with the agricultural community and relevant City departments;
c) Encourage sufficient notification to the agricultural sector of ditch-cleaning plans in order to achieve beneficial, effective and timely agricultural drainage;
d) Encourage the agricultural sector to cooperate with ditch-cleaning practices by providing appropriate right-of-ways;
e) Encourage the agricultural sector to support ditch-sidecasting activity where it does not interfere with normal farm practices and/or agricultural capability of the soils;
f) Require the proposed AIA (see Recommendation 4) be completed for all servicing and infrastructure projects. 		 7
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

signage in agricultural areas;

roads in agricultural land;

farm traffic;

ALR;

 Review and designate “farm travel” routes for travel between agricultural areas: 
a) Use recognizable signage to endorse these routes for farm vehicles; 
b) Review the wording of “Respect Slow Moving Farm Vehicles” signs and consider “Yield To Farm Vehicles”; 
c) Develop new road design guidelines to ensure that the outermost lane and shoulder in combination have a minimum of 4.3 meters (14 feet) in lateral clearance to accommodate 
the width of farm vehicles; 
d) Review options to minimize the impact of farm traffic on non-farm traffic by providing safe turn-offs for farm vehicles on identified agricultural corridors carrying high volumes of traffic. 		 9
economic development;

agrocultural advisory committee;

agricultural impact aseesement;

ALR;

 Ensure that all proposed City policies and bylaws relating to the agricultural sector and ALR encourage agricultural viability:
a) Refer proposed policies and bylaws to the proposed AAC (see Recommendation 1) for comment prior to their adoption;
b) Ensure that policies and bylaws, prior to adoption, are subject to the Agricultural Impact Assessment (see Recommendation 4) where appropriate. 		 11
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning; nuisance complaints; Encourage a cooperative and partnership approach to avoid and address nuisance complaints (e.g. spraying, noise, odour, dust, pesticide application, burning, etc.)  17
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

covenants;

buffer at agricultural edge;

residential development;

ALR;

 For new development adjacent to the ALR: 
a) Require the preparation of an agricultural edge plan, including buffering on the urban side, at the expense of the developer; and 
b) Require the registration of restrictive covenants, where possible. The intent of the covenant would be to: i) Inform prospective buyers of residential properties of the occurrence of normal farm practices on adjacent farmland (e.g. spraying, noise, odours, dust, pesticide application, burning, etc.); and ii) Minimize urban-rural conflict		 21

policy partnerships. advocacy and development;

wildlife, environmental and pest management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

agricultural advisory committee;;

The Agricultural Advisory Committee, farming community, City staff and other stakeholders shall work together to study, analyze, form options and strategies to address the following issues of concern around ESAs and the environment, as well as other issues that may arise that are of interest to the farming community:

• land use

• drainage, irrigation and ditch maintenance

• land clearing

• weed control

• crop loss due to wildlife and birds

 24

education;

wildlife, environmental and pest management;

 wildlife and ecosystem mangement; Provide information to all farmers related to best management practices and encourage them to adopt beneficial environmental guidelines. 
 		 28
education;

community food system education;

signs in agricultural areas;

local food culture;

 

Institute an information program to increase public awareness and commitment for agriculture, in consultation with the agricultural community, the Agriculture Awareness Coordinator (BC Agriculture Council), Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation, and others:

a) Develop appropriate materials to share with all residents (e.g. publications, via the City website) to provide them with information about agricultural activity in their area, including...See document for details.

b) Develop an agricultural signage program...See document for details.

c) Encourage the ALC to develop signs to indicate the location and extent of the ALR. An example may be “You are now in the Agricultural Land Reserve. Please respect farmland.”

d) Develop a brochure that celebrates the City’s agricultural tradition and history....See document for details.

e) Encourage linkages and partnerships between the agricultural community and the media to facilitate public education and awareness;

f) Create an agricultural business profile to provide information on agriculture as a business opportunity;

g) Develop an information package for farmers about agricultural policies and bylaws, heritage policies that support the preservation of buildings, lands and methods, and make this package available to the RFI and the public and place it on the City website (see Recommendation 16);

h) Explore the opportunities for holding a special event (e.g. Harvest Festival) or regular seasonal activity (e.g. summer weekend Farmer’s Market) to promote local produce and celebrate the City’s agricultural tradition and history.

 30
education;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

agricultural advisory committee;

 Create opportunities for Council, City staff and others to tour the agricultural lands and learn about the role agriculture plays in the City.  The proposed AAC (see Recommendation 1) may facilitate this activity.  31
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

covenants;

ALR;

 It is recommended that the proposed AAC (see Recommendation 1) review the option of introducing a Restrictive Covenant for properties within, and adjacent to, the ALR to address issues of conflict (e.g. noise, odours) related to agricultural uses. Example: Covenant used by City of Surrey for subdivisions bordering the ALR. 
 		 32
economic development; agricultural indistry services;  Develop a strategy to encourage agricultural support services and social infrastructure (such as agricultural research, agricultural banking and financing, industrial technologies, agricultural  marketing, specialized suppliers of agricultural materials and equipment) to locate in Richmond, in cooperation with the agricultural sector, Business Liaison and Development, BCMAFF, and others as appropriate. 34

development and productive use of agricultural land;

land access;

 

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

zoning;

greenhouses;

ALR;

leasing of land for agriculture;

Maximize the agricultural land available for agricultural uses:

 
a) Review the feasibility of amalgamating smaller lots to larger ones wherever possible. These parcels could then be sold as farmland or leased to farmers; 

b) Request the Province to review the policies on non-resident land ownership in BC and in other jurisdictions to determine how land owned by non-residents may be more fully farmed; 

c) Establish guidelines for parcel sizes suitable for farming, including options for smaller parcels of 2 acres or less; 

d) Encourage longer-term lease opportunities for farmers: i) Discourage non-farm uses of the ALR land (see Recommendation 18); ii) Develop a City-based Agricultural Land Registry to assist farmers to find agricultural land available for leasing. 

e) Explore the rezoning of selected non-ALR land (currently zoned for light industrial use) to “Light Industrial/Agricultural” to provide for the inclusion of greenhouses as a use and to encourage greenhouse development on non-ALR land wherever possible;

f) Encourage non-ALR “multiple-use” industrial buildings that will attract partnerships such as allowing greenhouse development on the tops of some industrial buildings as a possible pilot project. 

g) Review the costs and benefits of selling or leasing the City-owned nursery to local farmers in order to minimize City competition with the agricultural sector.

 35

economic development;

farm diversification;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

Encourage farmers to diversify their agricultural operations, by:
a) Liaising with support agencies such as BCMAFF, AAFC, GVRD and the ALC to gather information and identify resources to clarify diversification opportunities (e.g. new crop production and development, value-added production, etc.);

b) Encouraging partnerships between farmers and
i) Other farmers that haven’t been historically involved with the RFI and the proposed AAC; ii) Local businesses and industry, such as the hospitality sector, Chamber of Commerce, and others;iii) City Departments and City agencies, such as Business Liaison and Development, Tourism Richmond, Chamber of Commerce, and others; iv) Provincial and Federal ministries and agencies for projects which may make growth and diversification opportunities more easily attainable; v) Others to carefully locate and manage allotment gardens (community gardens) on agricultural lands. 

 36
economic development; local food culture; Develop a “Buy Local” marketing initiative to increase demand for locally grown agricultural products, in cooperation with Business Liaison and Development, Tourism Richmond, Chamber of Commerce, the RFI, and others. See document for details. 37

economic development;

education;

 new entrants to farming;

Encourage new farmers to enter the agricultural sector by:
a) Creating an agricultural business profile to provide information on agriculture as a business opportunity (see Recommendation 29 f);


b) Encouraging retiring farmers to apprentice new ones;


c) Investigating and publishing options for new farmers to obtain management skills training
from local educational institutions and private trainers;


d) Assisting local young people to find job opportunities in agriculture wherever possible,including co-operative education opportunities with area educational institutions such as
Kwantlen University College, University of British Columbia, and area secondary schools. 

 39

 

City of Vernon Official Community Plan Bylaw #5470

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

Sub-topic(s): ALR, signage in agricultural areas, roads in agricultural land, recreational use of agricultural land, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, buffer at agricultural edge, agri-tourism, ALR subdivision, amenity density zoning/contributions, covenants, local food culture, ALR exclusion, farmers' markets, residential development, urban gardens/orchard

Region: North Okanagan | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2014

View policy:  HTML PDF

Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location Language Rating
development and productive use of agricultural land; ALR; Encourage the protection of agricultural land through the support of the ALR and the continued farm use on lands with Rural/Agricultural designation. The City will direct new growth away from ALR lands and Rural/Agricultural lands to infill areas and redevelopment areas. 15.1 *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

ALR exclusion;

 Protect Agricultural Land Reserve lands which have viable, productive soils which may be improved through standard farming practices of soil capability classes 1-4, and consider the exclusion of ALR Lands which are not considered to be able to be improved through standard farming practices (i.e.irrigation), classes 5-7. Consider the exclusion of lands (classes 4-7). that are immediately adjacent to infrastructure, services and amenities, with due consideration of the rural protection area boundary. Where such lands fall within the rural protection area, but are deemed to support the City’s growth strategy and are in keeping with the RGS goal of compact, complete communities, require the Regional District of North Okanagan's approval on the redesignation of the lands as growth or future growth areas in the Regional Growth Strategy prior to exploring any redesignation of the lands in theOCP's land use plan to a more intensive land use.)
 

15.2

 *

development and productive use of agricultural land;

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

 ALR; Encourage compatibility between existing agricultural uses and adjacent land uses and ensure that the impacts on agricultural lands are minimised. Critical areas include higher density residential, institutional, recreational and all other uses that are people intensive at any one time, which are adjacent to agricultural uses (non-ALR and ALR).  15.6  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; buffer at agricultural edge; Require buffer strips to protect agricultural operations where non-agricultural properties are adjacent to land with agricultural uses, particularly ALR lands. This buffer should be located on non-agricultural land and may include a variety of landscaping, vegetation and fencing types and sizes such as those outlined in the Landscaped Buffer Specifications from the Agricultural Land Commission and the Ministry of Agriculture’s Guide to Edge Planning. To allow for buffering, the City will establish larger setbacks and lot depths for properties abutting agricultural uses, particularly ALR lands.
 		 15.7 *
  irrigation and drainage; The City will continue to support the development of high quality agricultural infrastructure. 15.9  

development and productive use of agricultural land;

economic development;

 ALR;
agri-tourism;		 With regard to Rural/Agricultural designations located within the ALR, the City of Vernon will:
a. Confine land uses to agricultural activity, as permitted under the Agricultural Land Reserve Act.
b. Strongly support the continuation, enhancement and growth of agricultural activity and agritourism.
c. Work closely with the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) and relevant agencies on any
developments that have a direct impact on ALR lands to minimize any potential impacts on agricultural uses. 		 15.10 *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;


recreational use of agricultural land;


residential development;

 With regard to Rural/Agricultural designations outside of the ALR, the City of Vernon will:
a. Allow for very low density residential use, low intensity recreation, agricultural use and resource use as permitted by the Agricultural Land Commission Act.b. Permit trail development, low intensity recreation activities and open space areas within the Rural/Agricultural designations in these areas.c. Maintain a subdivision lot size minimum of 12 hectares (30 acres), or an equivalent density of 1 lot per 12-hectare (30 acre) lot area, to preserve the present nature of the Vernon countryside and encourage maintenance of the agricultural industry. Exceptions include parcels intended for utility, transportation or public use within the Rural/Agricultural designations in these areas.		 15.11  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

roads in agricultural land;


signage in agricultural areas;


recreational use of agricultural land;


ALR;

 Collaborate with the Agricultural Land Commission to mitigate the impact of recreational trails and transportation routes on ALR lands and agricultural operations through sensitive routing, signage, fencing and other measures. 15.12  
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Encourage collaboration and partnerships with community agricultural organizations, private industry and government agencies to support and encourage food access programs and alternatives.  15.13  

food sales, access and procurement;

urban agriculture;

farmers' markets;


urban gardens/orchard;

 Support sustainable rural and urban agricultural practices within the city, including support for community and neighbourhood gardens and urban food production wherever possible, and encourage the development of a year round, indoor public market.  15.14  
urban agriculture;

urban gardens/orchard;


amenity density zoning/contributions;


covenants;


residential development;

 Encourage new development to include contiguous space intended for garden space for residents. Density bonusing may be considered for multiple family developments which allocate roof top garden space for residents. A covenant would be required to guarantee its ongoing maintenance and protect resident access to the facility.
 		 15.15 *
food sales, access and procurement; local food culture; Support community access to food, with specific emphasis on local farm products and encourage increased capacity for local food production and marketing. 15.16  

 

Village of Cumberland Zoning Bylaw No. 1027, 2016

Topic(s): Food Production, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Urban - Agriculture Conflict & Edge Planning, Urban Agriculture, Waste Management

Sub-topic(s): zoning, composting, urban chickens, beekeeping/apiculture, signage in agricultural areas, urban farm, pollinators, farm retail/farm gate sales, livestock, nuisance complaints

Region: Comox Valley | Document Type: Zoning Bylaw | Year: consolidated 2016

View policy:  HTML PDF

 

 

Topic Sub-Topic Policy or Policy excerpt Document Location

urban agriculture;

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

urban farm;

nuisance complaints;

Urban Agriculture

a) Urban agriculture shall not generate pedestrian or vehicular traffic, or parking, in excess of that which is characteristic of the Zone in which it is.

b) Urban agriculture activity shall not generate odour, waste, noise, smoke, glare, fire hazard, visual impact, or any other hazard or nuisance, in excess of that which is characteristic of the Zone in which it is located under normal circumstances wherein no urban agriculture exists.

 4.13 (a) (b)
       

waste management;

urban agriculture;

 composting; c) Compost bins and composting shall: i) be located at least 3.0metres (9.8feet) from any lot line; however, this setback may be reduced to 0.0metres (0.0feet) when opaque screening is in place or a solid bin is in use; and ii) only consist of plant, plant based material, or animal manure and shall not utilize any mechanized processes. 4.13 (c)

urban agriculture;

food sales, access and procurement;

farm retail/gate sales;

urban farm;

 d) A roadside stand shall: i) be the only form of commercial sales for an urban agriculture use; ii) have a GFA of not more than 5.0square metres (53.8square feet); iii) only allow sales between 7am and 9pm; iv) be entirely located on the lot on which the produce is grown; and v) be located on the property and must not impede sightlines to and from a public road, driveway or laneway. 4.13 (d)

urban agriculture;

food production;

beekeeping/apiculture;

polinators;

livestock;

e) Beekeeping (beekeeping for domestic purposes) is permitted on all lots allowing urban agriculture provided that:

i) lots have a minimum lot width of 15.0metres (49.2feet);

ii) lots have a minimum lot area is 550.0square metres (1,804.4sqaure feet); Zoning Bylaw No. 1027, 2016 Page 43 As Adopted September 6, 2016 Part 4 – Additional Zoning Regulations for Certain Uses or Circumstances

iii) a solid fence or dense hedge, known as a “flyway barrier,” at least 1.8metres (6.0feet) in height, shall be placed along the side of the hive that contains the entrance to the hive, and shall be located within 1.5metres (5.0feet) of the hive and shall extend at least 0.6metres (2.0feet) on either side of the hive. No such flyway barrier shall be required if all beehives are located at least 7.6metres (25.0feet) from all property lines and for hives that are located on porches or balconies at least 3.0metres (10.0feet) abovegrade, except if such porch or balcony is located less than 1.5metres (5.0feet) from a property line;

iv) hives shall be at least 6.0metres (19.6feet) from any neighbouring house, sidewalks, streets and public areas (e.g., parks);

v) honey bees shall be housed in hives;

vi) hives shall be registered with the Provincial authority, BC Ministry of Agriculture and Lands (BCMAL) [for additional information contact the Provincial Apiculturist Apiary Inspector];

vii) only two hives with colonies shall be permitted on each lot;

viii) hives shall be securely located to prevent accidental disturbance or trespass by people and pets, and to prevent damage from wildlife;

ix) hives shall be equipped with adequate ventilation and near a water source; x) honey production is for personal consumption only; and

xi) beekeeping is not permitted in multi-family residential areas, including strata developments, or commercial and industrial areas.

 4.13 (e)

urban agriculture;

food production;

urban chickens;

livestock;

f) The keeping of hens is permitted on all lots allowing urban agriculture use, provided that:

i) a coop and run shall be located at least 1.5metres (4.9feet) from all property lines unless there is a solid barrier such as a wall or fence;

ii) coops and runs shall not be located within a 4.5metre (14.8feet) buffer of habitable structures on adjacent property(ies);

iii) runs shall not exceed 4.5metres (14.8feet) in height;

iv) hens shall only be located in the rear yard;

v) the maximum number of hens shall be six (6) per lot;

vi) roosters are not permitted;

vii) sales of eggs, manure and other products associated with the keeping of hens are prohibited;

viii) coops and runs shall be maintained in a clean condition and the coop shall be kept free of obnoxious odours, substances and vermin;

ix) stored manure shall be kept in an enclosed structure such as a compost bin and no more than 3.0cubic metres (105.9cubic feet) shall be stored at any one time;

x) manure shall be disposed of in accordance with municipal bylaws; hen waste must be solid and bagged; and

xi) home slaughter of hens is prohibited and any deceased hens shall be disposed of at a livestock disposal facility or through the services of a veterinarian.

   4.13 (f)

food production;

urban agriculture;

 livestock; g) The keeping and raising of livestock shall only be permitted on lots greater than 0.4hectares (1.0acre). 4.13 (g)

urban agriculture;

food sales, access and procurement;

urban farm;

farm retail/gate sales;

Market Gardens

a) In zones permitting market gardens, the following is permitted:

i) only food and value-added products made from produce grown on site may be sold;

ii) selling requires a Business License from the Village;

iii) sales are only allowed between 7am and 9pm; iv) sales are allowed up to six months between April 1 and September 30 in each calendar year; and v) only one sign is permitted per lot (see Part 5.0 Signage).

 4.14 (a)

urban agriculture;

urban- agriculture conflict and edge planning;

nuisance complaints;

urban farm;

b) Market gardens must not:

i) generate pedestrian or vehicular traffic, or parking, in excess of that which is characteristic of the Zone in which it is located;

ii) generate odour, waste, noise, smoke, glare, and fire hazard, visual impact, or any other hazard or nuisance, in excess of that which is characteristic of the Zone in which it is located under normal circumstances wherein no urban agriculture exists;

iii) Include the growing and sale of mushrooms;

iv) include composting for producing mushroom growing media; and v) include medical marihuana facilities, marihuana dispensary, or any portion thereof, or be used for the growing of marihuana or other controlled substances.

 4.14 (b)

urban agriculture;

food sales, access and procurement;

farm retail/gate sales

 c) On-site sales of fruits, vegetables and edible plants shall be permitted within roadside stands for products grown on site provided that the size of the roadside stand does not exceed a GFA of 5.0square metres (53.8square feet). 4.14 (c)
urban agriulture;

urban farm;

signs in agricultural areas;

...b) Signs pertaining to the commercial components on a lot where a mixed use, residential multifamily, commercial, public assembly, industrial, agricultural, or retail development is permitted, provided that the signs permitted by this Part shall only be located on those portions of the lot and building that contain the commercial component. ....

 5.4 (b)

 

Supplementary Information

 

Municipal Planner Interview with the Village of Cumberland Re: Urban Agriculture and Market Garden Uses

The Village of Cumberland’s zoning bylaw, adopted in September 2016, includes provisions for urban agriculture and market garden land uses including the production and sale of select agricultural and horticultural products.

Permitted activities are described in the Urban Agriculture and Market Garden Toolkit as well as the Zoning Bylaw.

Policy Development and Community Consultation

Cumberland’s zoning bylaw was amended to include urban agriculture and market garden provisions after community members voiced interest in keeping backyard chickens as well as growing and selling agricultural products on properties in the Village.

A number of communities with existing urban agriculture and backyard chicken bylaws were consulted during the development of the bylaw amendments, including the City of Vancouver, the City of Victoria and the City of Campbell River.  Given capacity and resource constraints of the Village, the provisions of practical information and educational resources regarding agricultural practices was prioritized over regulatory enforcement, such as coop registration and inspection.

Community members were consulted regarding bylaw amendments, including this one, in public meetings held during the zoning bylaw revision process. Urban agriculture and market garden provisions were strongly supported by the community. Provisions to include beekeeping among the permitted urban agriculture activities were added as a result of community input. 

Policy Adoption

Urban agriculture and market garden provisions were strongly supported by Council and the community during the adoption of Cumberland’s new zoning bylaw.

Policy Implementation and Outcomes

The new urban agriculture provisions will be communicated to the public in the form of informational brochures/handouts and potential public workshops.  Having adopted the new zoning bylaw in September 2016, the Village of Cumberland is looking forward to new food production enterprises and local food access opportunities.

 

References

Village of Cumberland, Planning and Development, personal communication, October 2016

Village of Cumberland, Urban Agriculture and Market Garden Toolkit, 2016 Retrieved from https://cumberland.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/tool_kit_urban_ag_market_grdn_20160817.pdf, December 2016.

 

 

City of Surrey Sign Bylaw, No. 13656, 1999

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

Sub-topic(s): signage in agricultural areas, farm retail/farm gate sales

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Regulatory Bylaw | Year: 1999

View policy:  HTML PDF

Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

food sales, access and procurement;

econoimic development;

signage in agricultural areas;

farm retail\gate sales;

 See document for regulations of signs in Agricultural Zones. part 3

 

Subscribe to signage in agricultural areas