City of Calgary Municipal Development Plan

Topic(s): Education, Food Processing, Storage & Distribution, Food Production, Urban Agriculture, Waste Management, Water Management

Sub-topic(s): community food system education, composting, food distribution, stormwater management, urban gardens/orchard

Year: 2009

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Topic Subtopic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

urban agriculture;

 urban gardens/orchard; Parks, open spaces and outdoor recreation h. Ensure sufficient community open space provision in Inner City and Established Areas by maintaining a minimum of 2.0 hectares of open space per 1,000 residents. Calculations should be applied to logical community clusters where parks and recreation amenities are accessible and shared between communities. Community open space includes areas dedicated for schools; community centres; playfields; outdoor performance spaces; community gardens; and habitat areas that offer public amenity. 2.3.4 h

urban agriculture;

food production;

 urban gardens/orchard; Complete communities Objective: Foster distinctive, complete communities with a strong sense of place. Communities should be planned according to the following criteria for complete communities and provide spaces for community gardens and local food production 2.2.4 b (vii)
food processing, storage & distribution; food distribution; Goods movement Objective: To recognize the important economic role of goods movement by providing a safe, efficient and connective goods movement network that supports the Calgary International Airport, the Canadian National (CN) and Canadian Pacific (CP) intermodal facilities, transportation and distribution districts and goods movement routes, while also minimizing impacts on surrounding communities 3.4

food production;

 

 Future Greenfield Area Future Greenfield Areas are those large land areas in the city identified for future urban development that do not have an approved ASP in place. Planning for these areas should identify Activity Centres and/or Corridors that provide for a variety of housing types, opportunities for daily needs within walking distance to residential communities, and centres for transit access. Supporting the land use pattern is a street network that connects residents, jobs and commercial services through direct automobile, transit, bicycle, and pedestrian routes. The overall community design should integrate natural area protection within the open space and green infrastructure systems. Land use policies a. Future Greenfield Areas should: iv. Allow for local food production. 3.6.2 a (iv)

water management;

urban agriculture;

education;

waste management;

composting;

stormwater management;

community food system education;

 Green infrastructure Objective: Connect green infrastructure throughout the urban fabric b. Identify and protect strategic parcels, blocks, and corridors that increase ecosystem connectivity, provide opportunities for source control of stormwater infiltration, promote food production and composting, and encourage play and learning. 2.6.1 b

urban agriculture;

water management;

stormwater management;

urban gardens/orchard;

 Alternative Use Open Space Alternative Use Open Space (AUOS) consists of land acquired by The City, through dedication or otherwise, for purposes other than those of Recreational and Environmental Open Space such as plazas, utility corridors, urban agriculture, community gardens and stormwater management facilities. AUOS is planned to be functionally connected with the broader open space network and meet the objectives of MDP sections 2.3.4 (“Parks, open spaces and outdoor recreation”) and 2.6.1 (“Green infrastructure”), and is directed by the policies therein. 1. Planning for Acquired Alternative Use Open Space a. Lands should be functionally connected to other open space via green infrastructure. b. Lands should be used, in part, to establish buffers to help maintain the ecological function of protected EOS. c. Lands should be planned and designed to support stormwater management, while not negatively affecting public use of the area. d. Impervious surfaces and compacted soils should be minimized to allow stormwater to soak into the ground and replenish ground water supplies. volume 2: section 3.4.3 (pg 36)

 

District of Maple Ridge Agricultural 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): agri-tourism, agricultural advisory committee, agricultural industry services, ALR, BC environmental farm plan, buffer at agricultural edge, climate change and greenhouse gases, community food system education, disclosure agreement, farmer training, food distribution, food processing, food storage, irrigation and drainage, leasing of land for agriculture, local food culture, new entrants to farming, nuisance complaints, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, pesticide and pest management, protection of farming development permit area, research and data collection, stormwater management, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Agriculture Area Plan/Strategy | Year: 2009

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

land access;

urban agriculture;

education;

 

research and data collection;

leasing of land for agriculture;

ALR;

Increase Access to Underutilized Agricultural Land.

Recommendations

a) Develop a strategy to increase landowner awareness of farmland leasing options, taxation benefits, and community demand for local production  
b) Create a database of farmland available for leasing, including a database maintenance strategy 
c) Develop access to materials on lease/rental terms and sample agreements, possibly website delivered  
d) Create educational materials for agricultural property owners regarding stewardship of agricultural land 
e) Through various workshops and electronic media, initiate discussion on the role of small lot property owners in enhancing local agriculture in the District (gaining access to land, pooling of small lots, rent calculator, lessee responsibilities) 
f) Identify and promote opportunities for development of urban agriculture

 5.1

education;

land access;

new entrants to farming;

community food system education;

farmer training;

Improve the Agricultural Knowledge Base of Farmers.

Recommendations.

a) Partner with farmers to create apprenticeship opportunities and mentorships, and to attract workers to agriculture in the area
b) Pursue options and opportunities to provide a hands-on training ground for aspiring farmers
c) Engage high schools and post-secondary institutions in local farmer training initiatives
d) Investigate innovative ways aspiring new farmers without land may be encouraged to access agricultural land currently not in production
e) Through various workshops and electronic media, initiate information exchange on small lot agriculture (production techniques, organic, equipment, pest management)
f) Develop information sharing and exchange networks and coalitions with like-minded groups in other areas
g) Create a cross-commodity Farmers Institute (see Glossary) to coordinate and implement the knowledge base initiatives identified in this Agricultural Plan
h) Develop awareness of educational initiatives in the local community. 
 

 5.2
education;

research and data collection;

local food culture;

community food system education;

Improve the Agricultural Knowledge Base of the Consumer Public.

Recommendations.

a) Develop an inventory of local agricultural land use and agricultural products produced
b) Create newspaper slot highlighting farming, seasonal recipes, farmer direct markets
c) Encourage retailers to advertise and identify locally produced and seasonal products
d) Partner with schools and the School District to communicate information about farming
e) Create more hands-on displays at District Fair
f) Host a “Taste of Maple Ridge” event annually
g) Engage local chefs to partner in local food promotion
h) Partner with schools to develop agricultural curriculum, including coordinating with the Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation and the School Gardens project
i) Report on Agricultural Plan completion in the media
j) Report regularly in the media on progress and issues relating to implementing the Agricultural Plan
k) Provide continued support for the Haney Farmers Market. 
 

 5.3

food processing, storage and distribution;

food sales, access and procurement

food storage;

food distribution;

 

Develop the Local Distribution and Marketing System.

Recommendations.

a) Work with producers to: investigate the potential for marketing cooperatives; brokerages; machinery cooperatives; investigate community storage and handling options; learn about marketing models; branding  
b) Hold workshops on local marketing and distribution systems  
c) Enlist the participation of local expertise up-to-date on food marketing  issues  
d) Develop a strategy to assist the development of distribution and marketing options in the District 
e) Pursue the development of  key components of a local distribution system, including cooling, handling, and staging area for fresh produce (e.g., food terminal) 
f) Investigate marketing needs of local farming community

 5.4

development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

protection of farming development permit area;

Protect the Agricultural Land Base.

Recommendations 
a) Continue to implement the OCP policies to protect the agricultural land base by creating Development Permit Area guidelines to minimize non-agricultural encroachment on agriculturally designated lands and farming activities 
b) Continue to implement the OCP policies to protect the agricultural land base by creating guidelines for reviewing applications for non-farm use, exclusions, fill applications, 
transportation and utility applications, subdivisions, and government applications 
c) Investigate federal, provincial, and Metro Vancouver support for agriculture irrigation water supply expansion 
d) Explore opportunities to protect agricultural land from development through a variety of means such as donations of land, covenants, easements, agricultural use of municipal land, consolidation of land, and other mechanisms that support agriculture  
e) Support opportunities to provide land for community based agriculture    
f) Explore establishing an agricultural levy on agricultural land conversion developments to ensure that capital is available to finance the agricultural strategy in this plan 
g) Explore retention of lots 2 ha (5 acres) and larger in the Agricultural Land Reserve 
h) Support and encourage applications to include lands in the Agricultural Land Reserve

 5.5
water management;

ALR;

irrigation and drainage;

stormwater management;

Rehabilitate and Improve the Agricultural Infrastructure.

Recommendations

a) Investigate a watershed-based surface and groundwater irrigation strategy 
b) Where a need is identified, undertake a water supply inventory for lands in the Agricultural Land Reserve 
c) Explore establishing a drainage and flood control levy  
d) Require upland land owners and  applicants to control storm water flows into the flood plain 
e) Undertake a feasibility study of drainage and flood control to rehabilitate affected areas 
f) Continue to build relationship with the neighbouring municipality 
g) Require compensation from unavoidable agricultural land conversion developments to be used to increase net agricultural capability in the District 
h) Encourage the Agricultural Land Commission to enforce agreements entered into with proponents that allow applications to proceed on  Agricultural Land Reserve land

 5.6
food processing, storage and distribution;

food processing;

agricultural industry services;

Develop Local Food System Infrastructure Capacity.

a) Work with producers and local entrepreneurs to explore the feasibility of an agroindustrial infrastructure strategy that could include: shared industrial spaces; branding; small scale processing facilities; community kitchens; mobile slaughter facilities

 5.7
economic development;

agri-tourism;

urban gardens/orchards

Increase the Diversity of Agricultural Activity.  

Recommendations

a) Work with the AAC to promote and gauge the feasibility of alternative models of community supported agriculture 
b) Continue to acknowledge and incorporate agriculture into District economic development strategies and plans 
c) Explore  the agro-tourism policies of the Agricultural Land Commission for their potential to provide new and expanded opportunities for farmers and possible inclusion into District bylaws. 
d) Promote local agri-businesses and activities on District website and publications 
e) Encourage linkages in the agricultural sector in Maple Ridge to identify cross-demand for products  and services  
f) Identify a community work force for agriculture 
g) Identify community demand and develop linkages for participatory food production 
h) Provide opportunities for community gardening, allotments, and urban demonstration plots

 5.8
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

buffer at agricultural edge;

protection fo farming development permit area;

disclosure agreement;

nuisance complaints;

Reduce Potential for Stress in the Agricultural-Residential Interface.

a) Implement Development Permit Area guidelines to minimize non-agricultural  encroachment on agriculturally designated lands and farming activities, including specific provisions for buffer zones, appropriate landscaping, subdivision design, and building location 
b) Create a cross-commodity Farmers Institute to implement agricultural initiatives identified in this Plan 
c) Require notices on title on properties adjacent to agricultural lands (disclosure statements) to avoid neighbourhood conflicts   
d) Enforce noxious weed bylaw on idle land in the  Agricultural Land Reserve, municipal rights of-way, and utility rights of way 
e) Create respect for property rights of farmers respecting trespass, vandalism, and harassment 
f) Develop a neighbourhood community watch for stray dogs, animals, and trespass 
g) Develop ongoing communication channels with non-farming landowners to promote “good  neighbour” relations 
h) Educate landowners adjacent to agricultural land of potential for farming activities on neighbouring properties. 

 5.9
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

BC environmental farm plan;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

pesticide and pest management;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

Minimize the Impact of Agriculture on the Environment

Recommendations 
a) Educate farmers about the benefits of completing and implementing Environmental Farm Plans 
b) Lobby to have the Environmental Farm Plan (see Glossary)  program broadened to include the equine sector, hobby farmers, and new farmers 
c) Identify options for farmers to manage farm manures in a sustainable manner 
d) Investigate and adopt new technologies to deal with farm wastes, alternative energy sources, and generation of greenhouse gases 
e) Develop interface,  linkage, and communications with Department of Fisheries and Oceans and BC Ministry of Environment to create workable solutions to agriculture-environment issues in the District 
f) Educate and inform the community about the ecological goods and services agriculture provides in Maple Ridge 
g) Promote the use of natural methods of controlling pests

 5.10
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

Reduce Agriculture – Wildlife Conflict.

Recommendations 
a) Keep channels of communication open to advise on issues before they become problems  
b) Develop strategy to control populations of released domestic rabbits 
c) Work with farmers experiencing depredation from bears and deer to channel movement away from farms 
d) Support research to develop repellents and barriers for problem wildlife 
e) Identify opportunities and create incentives for land owners to participate in land management systems that enhance wildlife habitat and support agriculture

 5.11

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

agricultural advisory committee;

Create a Regulatory Environment Friendly to Agriculture

Recommendations 
a) Continue to retain the AAC to advise Council on issues affecting agriculture  
b) Develop results-based approach to new regulation, so that targets and effects are assessed before regulatory policy is implemented.  
c) Monitor proposed regulations to ensure they are not unnecessarily onerous on producers and agro-development 
d) Advocate for region-wide policies for agricultural area

 5.12
development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

ALR;

Protect and Enhance the Agricultural Context of the Agricultural Land Reserve (to address incompatible land use zoning for ALR).

Recommendations.

a) Continue to implement OCP by concentrating growth to within the urban area boundary 
b) Create a code of good land stewardship in the  Agricultural Land Reserve (abandoned cars, trailers, machinery, trash, obsolete signage, dumped soil) to prevent contamination and visual pollution (batteries, crankcase oil, unproductive fill) 
c) Encourage property owners to build in a fashion to conserve the land base and minimize potential for conflict with agricultural activity 
d) Explore changes in the RS-3 (One Family Rural Residential) zone as it applies to land in the  Agricultural Land Reserve with respect to restrictions such as setbacks, lot coverage, and accessory buildings.

 5.13

City of Pitt Meadows Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2352

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

Sub-topic(s): agricultural impact assessment, ALR, ALR subdivision, buffer at agricultural edge, covenants, farm worker accommodation, irrigation and drainage, leasing of land for agriculture, recreational use of agricultural land, residential development, roads in agricultural land, stormwater management, urban containment/growth boundary, water restrictions and conservation

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2007

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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; The City is introducing the concept of an Urban Containment Boundary in this OCP.  For years, Pitt Meadows has effectively managed development growth through its commitment to farmland and the Agricultural Land Reserve and by way of its natural features (i.e. floodplain), which curtails development in most of the City.  An Urban Containment Boundary will more clearly identify those areas to be preserved as rural and those areas to be developed.  The Urban Containment Boundary is a conceptual line which generally coincides with the Agricultural Land Reserve and with Metro Vancouver’s Green Zone.  It is the intention of the City to consider development proposals in those areas where the Urban Containment Boundary does not coincide with one or both of these designations. section 1  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

recreational use of agricultural land;

Policies
f) With the exception of the operations lawfully in existence as of the date of adoption of this Plan, any development of new golf course facilities, driving ranges and other commercial recreation uses are not supported on agricultural lands.

 4.2.1 (f) *

development and productive use of agricultural land;

land access;

 leasing of land for agriculture; a) The City supports the retention of large land holdings, the consolidation of small parcels of land and the creation of long-term land leases to enable investment to occur within agricultural areas as part of helping to maintain and establish economically viable farm units;  4.2.2 (a) *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 b) Fracturing or subdivision of agricultural parcels is not supported. However, the City may consider severance of a home-site parcel where the applicant has continuously owned and lived on the property prior to and since December 21,  1972, no previous subdivision of the property has occurred, and the minimum lot requirements of the City’s Zoning Bylaw are met 4.2.2 (b) *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

residential development;

 Policies
a) Zoning regulations for residential dwellings on agricultural land that establish a building placement envelope at set distances from front and side lot lines and create building height restrictions will be considered. The City will also consider restricting the size of dwelling units. 		 4.2.3 (a)  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

farm worker accommodation;

residential development;

 b) All seasonal farm labour housing must conform to health and fire code regulations and not create housing opportunities for non-farm workers 4.2.3 (b) *

development and productive use of agricultural land;

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

 agricultural impact assessment; Policies
a) An agricultural impact assessment prepared by a professional agrologist is required by the City quantifying the impacts of any proposed development that may affect agricultural activity, such as a non-farm use on farmland or rezoning or subdivision on lands adjacent to farmlands; 		 4.2.4 (a) *
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

buffer at agricultural edge;

covenants;

 b) In support of Provincial Right to Farm legislation, agricultural lands shall be buffered from urban uses that could have negative impacts on farm activities.  Developers of land close  to agricultural areas shall provide appropriate building setbacks and landscape buffering using the current standards of the Provincial Agricultural Land Commission and the City and shall also place restrictive covenants on title that outline the potential disruptions encountered when living or working close to agricultural areas (e.g. noise, odours, crop spraying, slow moving traffic); 4.2.4 (b) *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

residential development;

 a) Residential development on agricultural lands for non-agricultural purposes is not encouraged by the City;  4.6.5 (a)  

development and productive use of agricultural land;

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

zoning;

residential development;

 Policies
b) Rural Residential lands as indicated on Schedule 3B are lands which are not within the Agricultural Land Reserve.  In order to ensure compatibility with surrounding farmland, residential density on rural lands shall not exceed a maximum of one lot per net hectare. No extension of the public sanitary sewage collection system will be  considered by the City for rural residential housing;		 4.6.5 (b) *
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

roads in agricultural land;

farm traffic;

 Conflicts between farm and non-farm traffic in agricultural areas will be reduced by directing non-farm traffic away from rural roads that serve farm traffic when designing new arterial or collector roads; 4.9.1.4 (j) *
water management;

water restrictions and conservation;

irrigation and drainage;

 b) The use of potable water for irrigation and agri-industrial uses is discouraged where other sources of water are available; 4.10.2 (b)  
water management; irrigation and drainage; c) The City will work with the agricultural community to develop a plan, including an appropriate funding model, to provide adequate irrigation water from the Pitt and Alouette Rivers. 4.10.2 (c)  
water management; stormwater management; a) The City will limit the extent  of urban run-off by requiring each development application to adhere to  the requirements outlined in the Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw. In addition, the City will consider using similar limits on storm water run-off for large, intensive impervious agricultural projects 4.10.4 (a)  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

ALR subdivision;

 Agricultural – 8 Hectare (20 Acre) Minimum Parcel Size Land reserved for farming and agri-industrial uses that serve and support agriculture. The vast majority of the land is in the Agricultural Land Reserve and is governed by the Agricultural  Land Commission Act and Regulations. The intention of the designation is to provide a stable, long term land base for agriculture limited only by the Farm Practices Protection Act and the Agricultural Land Commission Act. The minimum parcel size is governed by the Agricultural Land Commission, but with the exception of subdivision for a Homesite Severance, shall be not less than 8 hectares.Agricultural – 16 Hectare (40 Acre) Minimum Parcel Size Section 5 *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

ALR subdivision;

 Agricultural – 16 Hectare (40 Acre) Minimum Parcel Size Land reserved for farming and agri-industrial uses that serve and support agriculture. The vast majority of the land is in the Agricultural Land Reserve and is governed by the Agricultural Land Commission Act and Regulations.The intention of the designation is to provide a stable, long term land base for agriculture limited only by the Farm Practices Protection Act and the Agricultural Land Commission Act. The minimum parcel size is governed by the Agricultural Land Commission, but with the exception of subdivision for a Homesite Severance, shall be not less than 16 hectares.  Section 5 *

City of Port Moody Official Community Plan Schedule “A” to Bylaw No. 2849

Topic(s): Urban Agriculture, Waste Management, Water Management

Sub-topic(s): stormwater management, composting, residential development

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

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

waste management;

water management;

urban agriculture;

stormwater management;

composting;

residential development;

 The City will consider the development of a policy with  respect to urban agriculture to encourage podiums and mid-rise concrete developments to accommodate green roofs for urban agriculture in addition to stormwater management and to provide for on-site composting and rain water collection. pg 41, policy 22

 

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

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

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

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

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

buffer at agricultural edge;

covenants;

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

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

water management;

stormwater management;

irrigation and drainage;

commercial development;

institutional development;

residential development;

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

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

water management;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

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

amenity density zoning/contributions;

food processing;

food storage;

urban gardens/orchard;

farmland trust;

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

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

 H.3.2.1 (e )  

 

Supplementary Information

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

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

Policy Development and Public Consultation

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

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

Policy Adoption

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

Policy Implementation and Outcomes

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

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

Policy Recommendations

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

Related Policies and Processes

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

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

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

 

References

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

District of Mission Official Community Plan Bylaw 4052-2008

Topic(s): Development and Productive use of Agricultural Land, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, BC environmental farm plan, buffer at agricultural edge, community food system education, covenants, farm diversification, food processing, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, recreational use of agricultural land, research and data collection, residential development, roads in agricultural land, soil, stormwater management, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Fraser Valley | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2008

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

Language Rating
development and productive use of agricultural land;

soil;

ALR;

 Aggregate within Agricultural Land Reserve: Identify opportunities for improving the long-term potential of land through the reclamation of land for agricultural use in cases where some or all of the aggregate resources have been removed and the topsoil layers in their original layers have been replaced 1.4.5  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

residential development;

 Rural, Rural Residential and Suburban area provide a large lots housing choice with lot sizes that respect the rural nature of the area and may add additional buffering to environmentally sensitive areas and  agricultural lands.  In general, larger lot sizes shall be retained in the Rural  area to support agriculture, Rural Residential designated densities shall be  maintained to support hobby farming and rural lifestyles, and smaller rural  lots shall be supported in the Suburban area to provide acreage residential lifestyle options. 2.3.1  
economic development/agri-tourism; partnerships/advocacy/liaising;; Develop the agri-tourism sector of the tourism industry through partnerships and marketing activities. 3.1.17  
urban- agriculture conflict/edge planning;

buffer at agricultural edge;

ALR;

residential development;

 Use a range of tools to minimize and mitigate land use conflicts when urban residential development is adjacent to Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) lands. 2.1.14  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 Although not precluding changes, support the Agricultural Land Commission mandate to maintain the farming integrity of lands designated as Agriculture Land Reserve land by exploring alternatives before supporting changes to the ALR. 3.4.2  
economic development/agri-tourism;

ALR;

farm diversification;

 Encourage the provision of a full range of agricultural and complementary uses in the ALR and encourage value-added activities that can improve farm viability such as cottage industry businesses. 3.4.4 *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

roads in agricultural land;

recreational use of agricultural land;

 Preserve contiguous areas of agricultural land and avoid severance by recreation, parks, transportation and utility corridors. 3.4.5 *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 Upon application to subdivide ALR lands, minimum lot sizes should be large enough to provide a broad range of agricultural uses and should be at least as large as larger lots in the area. Subdivisions should be designed to accommodate and promote agricultural uses for which the immediate area is best suited. 3.4.6 *

development and productive use of agricultural land;


urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

zoning;

ALR;

 Recognize and protect the needs and activities of farm operations when considering adjacent and nearby land uses.  3.4.7  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

stormwater management;

covenants;

 Encourage adjacent land uses that are compatible with agricultural uses and that promote the principles of Smart Growth. Consider the use of disclosure statements (via a restrictive covenant) on titles of new developments adjacent to agricultural areas, informing landowners of the possibility of noise, dust and odours arising from normal farm practices. At the same time, ensure that the impact of adjacent development on agriculture lands, such as water runoff from uplands, is minimized.  3.4.8 *
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

buffer at agricultural edge;

ALR;

 Discourage urban development abutting Agricultural Land Reserve lands, and where necessary, require separation of the land uses with setbacks and landscaped and bermed buffers. Landscaped buffer specifications are provided through the Agricultural Land Commission. 3.4.9 *
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; ALR; Consideration should be given to a density transition where urban development is proposed adjacent to Agricultural Land Reserve property. 3.4.10  
development and productive use of agricultural land; recreational use of agricultural land; Where recreation trails pass through agricultural lands, ensure they are designed so as to minimize disruption and other impacts on agricultural activity. 3.4.11  

education;


policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

community food system education;

 Support public education, awareness, dialogue and input on agricultural issues in Mission and work with an agricultural group, the Agricultural Land Commission, the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands and the Fraser Valley Regional District to develop strategies and action plans for the ongoing improvement of Mission’s agriculture sector.  3.4.12  
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Request that the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands take a stronger role in providing financial incentives and assistance programs to promote the economic viability of farming underutilized agricultural lands.  3.4.13 *
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem mangement; Encourage eco-friendly farming practices through the coordination of farming and environmental protection efforts (e.g. habitat protection, water use management, drainage management). 3.4.14  

food processing, storage & distribution;


economic development/agri-tourism;

BC environmental farm plan;

 Promote participation in the Environmental Farm Planning Program. 3.4.15  

food processing, storage & distribution;

food processing;

ALR;

agri-tourism;

 Pursue better use of vacant and underutilized Agricultural Land Reserve lands by promoting the integration of farming with other environmental, heritage and economic community goals. Promote initiatives related to agri-tourism, agriculture heritage preservation and the local processing of agricultural products.  3.4.16  


policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Encourage partnerships with the agricultural community, senior governments and private enterprise to promote the agricultural sector. 3.4.17  

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

economic development/agri-tourism;

agri-tourism;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Explore partnership opportunities with the University College of the Fraser Valley to grow the agri-tourism industry. 3.4.18  

 

City of Victoria Official Community Plan

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

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

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

View policy:  HTML PDF

 

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

urban agriculture;

food production;

zoning;

urban gardens/orchard;

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

urban agriculture;

water management;

food production;

urban gardens/orchard;

stormwater management;

pilot project;

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

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

 9.7.3 *

food production;

food processing, storage and distribution;

food access, sales and procurement;

nutrition and public health;

economic development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

food processing;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

local food culture;

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

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

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

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

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

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

urban agriculture;

food production;

urban gardens/orchard;

edible landscaping;

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

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

17.4.2 The roles and responsibilities of participants; 

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

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

 17.4; *

urban agriculture;

food production;

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

urban agriculture;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

food production;

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

urban gardens/orchard;

pilot project;

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

food production;

urban agriculture;

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

food production;

urban agriculture;

urban gardens/orchard;

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

urban agriculture;

food production;

urban gardens/orchard;

residential development;

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

urban chickens;

beekeeping/apiculture;

pollinators;

livestock;

Support the keeping of small livestock in the city by:

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

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

 17.13; *
urban agriculture;

zoning;

urban farm;

urban farm;home occupations/ home-based business;

commercial development;

institutional development;

residential development;

greenhouses;

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

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

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

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

waste management;

urban agriculture;

food production;

food processing, storage and distribution;

pilot project;

food processing;

food recovery/gleaning/donation;

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

food processing;

farmland trust;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

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

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

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

 17.19; *

nutrition and public health;

food sales, access and procurement;

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

emergency preparedness;

research and data collection;

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

emergency preparedness;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

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

composting;

commercial development;

residential development;

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

17.26.1 Promoting household composting systems;

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

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

 17.26; *
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