City Of Richmond: Response To Genetically Engineered Free BC Resolution

Topic(s): Food Production

Sub-topic(s): crops, GE/GMO

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City of Richmond Regular Council Meeting Minutes responding to City Of Richmond: Response To Genetically Engineered Free BC Resolution. See Council Meeting Minutes, May 28th, 2012 for details. See excerpt below:

 

" 8. City Of Richmond: Response To Genetically Engineered Free BC Resolution

(File Ref. No. 008-4040-08-01) (REDMS No. 3518727, 3523078, 3523135, 3521708)

 

(1) WHEREAS for the purposes of this resolution the following terms are defined accordingly:

“Genetic Engineering and Modification / Genetically Engineered and Modified (G.E., G.M., G.M.O.)” refers to the direct manipulation of an organism’s DNA using recombinant DNA technology.  For the purposes of this resolution genetic engineering does NOT include traditional selective breeding, conjugation, fermentation, hybridization, in vitro fertilization, tissue culture, or marker assisted selection;

(2) WHEREAS such crops may pose health and other risks; and

(3) WHEREAS there are now a limited number of such crops grown in the City of Richmond each year,

 

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

(1) That the City of Richmond hereby opposes the cultivation of genetically engineered plants and trees in the City of Richmond with the exception of existing GMO crops, and that from this Resolution forward, no further GM crops, trees, or plants should be grown in the City of Richmond. This also includes GM fruit trees, all GM plants and shrubbery, GM vegetables, GM commodity crops and any and all field tests for medical and experimental GM crops;

(2) That Option 1: Support Consumer Choice/Advocate for Strengthened Senior Government Management as described in the report titled “City of Richmond: Response to Genetically Engineered Free BC Resolution”, dated April 26, 2012, from the Interim Director, Sustainability and District Energy be endorsed;

(3) That letters be sent on behalf of Council to the Prime Minister, Premier and leaders of the Federal and Provincial opposition, and copied to relevant Ministers in the Federal and Provincial governments, Richmond MPs and MLAs, Metro Vancouver, UBCM, the LMLGA, and the FCM, advising of these resolutions and requesting strengthened management of genetically modified plants, including the introduction of mandatory labelling requirements, more transparent assessment procedures and enhanced communication with the public; and

(4) That the City of Richmond agrees to revisit this resolution as pertinent new information becomes available that affects this resolution.

 

ADOPTED ON CONSENT

 

..."

retrieved from http://www.richmond.ca/cityhall/council/agendas/council/2012/052812_minutes.htm, February 2017

District of Squamish Animal Control Bylaw NO. 2124, 2009

Topic(s): Food Production, Urban Agriculture

Sub-topic(s): beekeeping/apiculture, livestock, pollinators, urban chickens

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

food production;

urban agriculture;

urban chickens;

livestock;

Keeping of Urban Hens (As amended by Bylaw No. 2335, 2014)

The keeping of up to five (5) Hens is permitted provided that no neighbourhood health, environmental or nuisance problems result. Universities are not restricted to the number of hens for educational purposes.

42. A person who keeps one (1) or more Hens, up to a maximum of five (5), must:
(a) be a resident of the property where the Hens are kept;
(b) keep no more than five (5) Hens on any parcel of land despite the number of permissible dwelling units on that parcel;
(c) not keep a Rooster;
(d) ensure that all Hens are kept within a secure Coop from sunset to 7:00 a.m.;
(e) ensure that each Hen remains at all other times in a Coop or Pen;
(f) not permit a Hen within a residential dwelling unit or on a balcony or deck;
(g) provide a Coop and a Pen each with a minimum of 0.37m2 in floor area and 0.92m in height per Hen;
(h) provide each Hen with its own nesting box and perch that is at least fifteen (15) centimetres long;
(i) not keep a Hen in a cage unless for the purposes of transport of the Hen;
(j) ensure that the Coop and Pen do not exceed 10m2 floor area or 2m in height;
(k) ensure that the Coop and Pen are situated in a back yard only which has a continuous fence that is in accordance to the Zoning Bylaw;
(l) ensure that the Coop is situated in accordance with the accessory building setbacks identified in the Zoning Bylaw;
(m) ensure that the Coop and Pen are situated at least 3m away from any windows or dwelling doors;
(n) ensure that the Coop and Pen are situated in such a way that would reasonably prevent entry by wildlife;
(o) ensure that the Coop and Pen are fully enclosed by electric fencing and situated no less than 1 metre from the electric fencing per the Zoning Bylaw;
(p) maintain each Coop and Pen in good repair and sanitary condition, and free from vermin and obnoxious smells and substances;
(q) construct and maintain each Coop and Pen such that it is secure from other animals and prevents any rodent from harbouring underneath or within it or within its walls;
(r) not sell any manure or meat derived from the hens;
(s) secure all Hen food that is stored outdoors from vermin and wildlife;
(t) ensure the timely removal of leftover food, debris and manure from each Coop and Pen;
(u) store manure within a fully enclosed structure in a manner that does not generate excessive heat or odour; ensuring that no more than 0.085m3 (3 cubic feet) is stored at a time;
(v) not deposit manure in the District’s sewage or storm drain system. Small quantities of manure may be delivered to an organic food recycling system, where available, or placed in a residential garbage tote and contained within a sealed bag;
(w) not slaughter or euthanize a Hen on the property;
(x) not dispose of a deceased Hen other than by delivering it to a veterinarian, landfill in a sealed bag, a farm, an abattoir, or other facility with the ability to lawfully dispose of the carcass;
(y) not bury a Hen on the property;
(z) follow biosecurity procedures recommended by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and (aa) register the Hens with District of Squamish Animal Control

42

food production;

urban agriculture;

beekeeping/apiculture;

pollinators;

livestock;

Keeping of Urban Bees (As amended by Bylaw No. 2335, 2014)

The keeping of Beehives is permitted provided that no neighbourhood health, environmental or nuisance problems result. Universities are not restricted to the number of beehives for educational purposes.


43. A person who keeps Urban Bees must:
(a) keep no more than;
(i) two (2) Beehives on any parcel of land under 929 square metres (10,000 square feet) in size despite the number of dwelling units permissible on that parcel;
(ii) four (4) Beehives on any parcel of land over 929 square metres (10,000 square feet) in size and under 1394 square metres (15,000 square metres) in size despite the number of dwelling units permissible on that parcel;
(iii) six (6) Beehives on any parcel of land over 1394 square metres (15,000 square feet) in size despite the number of dwelling units permissible on that parcel;
(b) be a resident of the property where the Bees are kept;
(c) ensure that the Beehives are situated in a back yard only which has a continuous fence that is 1.8 metres in height so as to ensure an appropriate flight path for Bees;
(d) ensure that the Beehives are situated in accordance with the accessory building setbacks identified in the Zoning Bylaw;
(e) ensure that Beehives are situated in such a way that reasonably prevents access by wildlife;
(f) ensure that the Beehives are fully enclosed by electric fencing and situated no less than 1 metre from the electric fencing per the Zoning Bylaw;
(g) ensure that the entrances to the Beehives are facing away from the closest neighbouring property;
(h) maintain the Bees in a condition that reasonably prevents swarming and aggressive behaviour;
(i) ensure that immediate action is taken to end swarming or aggressive behaviour of Bees;
(j) provide sufficient water for the Bees that reasonably prevents them from seeking water on adjacent parcels of land;
(k) post clear, visible signage on the parcel of land warning that bees and electric fencing are present; and
(l) be registered with the apiculture registration system for British Columbia, coordinated by the BC Ministry of Agriculture (BCMA). Under the authority of the Provincial Bee Act, a person must not keep Bees or possess Beehive equipment unless the person is registered.

43

 

District of Squamish Zoning Bylaw, No. 2200

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

Sub-topic(s): beekeeping/apiculture, composting, farm retail/farm gate sales, greenhouses, irrigation and drainage, livestock, mobile/street food vending, pollinators, residential development, urban chickens, urban gardens/orchard, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

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

food production;

food sales, access and procurement;

zoning;

composting;

beekeeping/apiculture;

pollinators;

livestock;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

urban gardens/orchard;

residential development;

 

AGRICULTURE, URBAN  means the act of growing food on a lot. In addition to produce grown in a garden, this also includes community gardens, fruit and nut tree production, the keeping of hens and/or bees, and agricultural retail sales limited to 30 m2 in gross floor area and provided that at least 75% of goods for sale are produced on site. Urban agriculture is an accessory use on parcels that are zoned residential. (Bylaw 2303, 2013) 1.3  
urban agriculture; zoning;

The following uses shall be permitted in any zone:...

...(o) urban agriculture;

4.2 (o)  

food production;

urban agriculture;

zoning;

urban gardens/orchard;

composting;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

irrigation and drainage;

URBAN AGRICULTURE (Bylaw 2303, 2013)


(a) The following regulations apply to community gardens
(i) Community garden use shall be authorized in accordance with all relevant District policies and bylaws.
(ii) Community gardens must be serviced by and connected to the municipal water system on the same lot as where the community garden is located.
(iii) Notwithstanding 4.4 (e), accessory buildings and structures for community garden use, including but not limited to storage for materials and tools, a composting facility or greenhouse, are permitted. The siting and size of accessory buildings and structures shall be in accordance with Section 4.4 of this bylaw.
(iv) Raised garden beds shall be set back a minimum of 1.52 metres from all lot lines.
(v) Community garden compost shall only be used for the purpose of composting on-site organics. The compost shall be located in a low foot traffic use location, to ensure limited potential conflict between wildlife and people. Composting and storage shall be in accordance with Section 4.5 of this bylaw.
(vi) Where a lot is developed for a community garden use and where such a lot abuts a residential use, a fence or landscape screening is required as per section 4.6 (Fencing) and 4.7 (Screening) of the Zoning Bylaw.

4.33 (a)  

food production;

urban agriculture;

zoning;

urban chickens;

livestock;

(b) The following regulations apply to coops for the keeping of hens. Coops must be:
(i) No more than 10 m² in floor area;
(ii) No more than 2 m high; 48
(iii) Situated in accordance with the accessory building setbacks identified in Section 4.4;
(iv) No closer than 3 m from any door or window of any dwelling;
(v) Situated in a rear yard only;
(vi) Located at grade level;
(vii) Constructed to prevent access by wildlife and other animals; and
(viii) Surrounded with electric fence, per Fencing Section 4.6.
(c) The following regulations apply to beekeeping. Beehives must be:
(i) Restricted to:
a) No more than 2 beehives on all lots under 929 square metres in size;
b) No more than 4 beehives on all lots over 929 square metres in size and under 1394 square metres in size;
4.33(b)  
urban agriculture;

zoning;

beekeeping/apiculture;

pollinators;

livestock;

c) No more than 6 beehives on all lots over 1394 square metres in size;
(ii) Situated in accordance with the accessory building setbacks identified in
Section 4.4;
(iii) Situated so as to ensure the flight path of the bees is up over the neighbouring houses in order to minimize the volume of bees at ground
level;
(iv) Positioned so that the beehive entrance faces away from the closest
neighbouring property line;
(v) Located in the rear yard;
(vi) Surrounded with electric fence, per Fencing Section 4.6; and
(vii) Have clear, visible signage on the lot warning that bees are present.
4.33 (c )  
food sales, access and procurement;

zoning;

mobile /street food vending;

PORTABLE FOOD VENDING - CONDITIONS OF USE


Portable Food Vending is permitted to operate:
(a) In any zone that permits a Retail Store, general Retail Sales or Restaurant use; or on other lands for a Special Event with District approval;
(b) Other than on a highway, sidewalk or boulevard providing pedestrian or motor vehicle access;
(c) On parkland or public property with District approval;

4.34  

urban agriculture;

development and     productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

AGRICULTURAL BUILDINGS


Despite any provision of this Bylaw, where Agriculture is permitted as a principal use, there will be no limit on the number of buildings used for agricultural purposes.

4.36  
  zoning; (h) Notwithstanding any Section of this Bylaw, where agriculture is permitted as a
principal use, there will be no limit on the number or gross floor area of accessory buildings used solely for agricultural purposes. Lot coverage provisions continue to apply to this section. (Bylaw 2434, 2016)
4.4 (h)  
urban agriculture;

zoning;

greenhouses;

(i) Notwithstanding any Section of this Bylaw, greenhouses shall be exempt from
maximum number of buildings, area and gross floor area restrictions and will be
permitted to exceed the maximum lot coverage provisions by an additional 20% of the total lot area. (Bylaw 2434, 2016)
4.4 (i)  
food sales, access and procurement;

zoning;

residential development;

ACCESSORY RETAIL


Accessory retail shall be limited to the selling of agricultural produce and products grown on the lot or another lot operated as part of the same operation not to exceed an area of 92.9 sq. m. 

15.10 and 16.12  

Corporation of the District of Burnaby Zoning Bylaw No. 4742

Topic(s): Food Production, Urban Agriculture

Sub-topic(s): beekeeping/apiculture, pollinators, livestock

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

food production;

urban agriculture;

beekeeping/apiculture;

pollinators;

livestock:

...an accessory use on a lot in the R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R10 and R11 Districts may include urban beekeeping for domestic purposes subject to the following conditions:


(a) the lot shall have a width of not less than 15m (49.2 ft.) and an area of not less than 557.40 m2 (6,000 sq.ft.);


(b) the lot shall be used or occupied for single family dwelling purposes only;


(c) not more than two beehives and two nucleus colonies shall be maintained on the lot; and


(d) the hives or structures inhabited by the bees shall be located in the rear yard and, unless the rear yard is surrounded by a solid fence or hedge not less than 1.8m (5.91ft.) in height, shall be
(i) set back not less than 7.5 m (25 ft.) from all lot lines; or
(ii) elevated not less than 2.5 m (8.0 ft.) above the surface of the ground.

section 3 "Acessory Use" (4)

 

Electoral Area ‘C’ Oliver Rural Zoning Bylaw No. 2453

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

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, farm retail/farm gate sales, food distribution, food processing, food storage, livestock, residential development, siting and coverage, zoning

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
economic development; agri-tourism;

Agri-Tourism Accommodation


Agri-tourist accommodation is subject to the following regulations:
.1 Agri-tourist accommodation units are not permitted on parcels less than 4
ha, and no more than five (5) agri-tourism accommodation units are permitted on parcels 4 ha up to 7.9 ha, and no more than ten (10) agri-tourism accommodation units are permitted on parcels 8 ha and greater.

.2 No more than ten guest rooms are permitted on parcels 10 ha and greater.
.3 All guest rooms shall be located within a principal dwelling unit or separately from a principal dwelling unit, but all rooms contained under one roof.
.4 No guest room in the agri-tourist accommodation shall have an area of greater than 30 m2. A separate or ensuite washroom is not included as part of the area of the guest room.
.5 Meals for those persons renting the guest rooms may be provided within a principal dwelling unit or separately from the principal dwelling unit but contained under the same roof as the guest rooms.
.6 No cooking facilities shall be provided for within the guest rooms intended for the agri-tourist operation.
.7 No person shall stay within a guest room for more than thirty days in a calendar year.
.8 Approval from the Land Reserve Commission is required for an agri-tourist accommodation on lands within the Agricultural Land Reserve.
.9 One parking space per guest room is required in addition to those required for the principal dwelling.
.10 The agri-tourist operation shall not generate traffic congestion or parking problems within the District and shall not produce a public offence or nuisance of any kind.

7.16
development and productive use of agricultural land; siting and coverage;

Setbacks for Buildings, Structures and Areas for Farm uses...,

See document for additional details.

7.22
food production; livestock;

Keeping of Livestock


In this Bylaw, where agriculture is a permitted use, the following restrictions apply:
.1 On any parcel 2.0 ha or less in area, the total number of livestock, shall not exceed one (1) animal for each 0.4 ha of parcel area; xxxviii

.2 Despite Section 7.24.1, on any parcel 0.4 ha or less in area, the total number of poultry and/or fur bearing animals shall not exceed twenty-five (25).

7.2.3

food sales, access and procurement;

food processing, storage and distribution;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

food processing;

food distribution;

food storage;

Provisions for Accessory Retail Sales and Processing, Packing and Storage of Farm Products and/or Off-Farm Products


.1 Where permitted in any agricultural zone, farm products, processed farm
products and off-farm products may be sold to the public by retail sale subject
to the following:

a) the portion of the agricultural land used for retail sales of off-farm products shall not exceed one-third of the total area used for all retail sales. For the purpose of calculating the portion of agricultural or industrial agriculture land to be used for retail sales, the area of any building or structure used for that purpose, including aisles and other areas of circulation, shelf and display space, counter space for packaging and taking payment and any area used for the service and consumption of hot and cold food items, shall be included, but any office area, wholesale storage area, processing facility or parking area or driveway, whether used for retail sale or not, shall not be included;

b) where off-farm products are offered for sale, farm products and/or processed farm products shall also be offered for sale;

c) the retail sales area shall not exceed 300 m2;


d) ‘retail sales area’ in an Agricultural zone means the floor area or dedicated outside area on which farm retail sales are taking place and includes areas used for retail purposes inside buildings and areas outside buildings. It does not include parking, driveways, office space, washrooms, winery food & beverage lounges, or areas for processing or product storage;

e) where off-farm products are offered for sale, a minimum of 50% of the retail sales area must be devoted to the sales of farm products produced on the farm; and

f) at least 50% of the farm product being stored, packed, prepared, or processed is produced on the farm or is feed required for farm production purposes on the farm.

7.24
development and productive use of agricultural land; residential development;

Maximum Number of Dwellings Permitted Per Parcel

a) the number of principal dwellings and the number of accessory
dwellings, mobile homes and temporary farm worker housing
permitted per parcel shall be as follows:...

See document for details related to number of dwellings permitted per parcel in Agriculture One Zone (AG1)

10.2.5
development and productive use of agricultural land; siting and coverage; See document for siting and coverage regulations for buildings and structures in Agriculture One Zone (AG1). 10.2.6-10.2.8

 

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

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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

District of North Saanich Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1130

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

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, buffer at agricultural edge, climate change and greenhouse gases, demonstration farm, farmer training, farmers' markets, food distribution, food processing, livestock, recreational use of agricultural land, soil, zoning

View policy:  HTML PDF

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

buffer at agricultural edge;

ALR;

To protect ALR land from uses that are incompatible or inconsistent with agricultural use, proposed development adjacent to Agricultural and Rural areas may only be supported in accordance with the following criteria:
a) The development will have minimal impact on the existing manmade and natural physical features of the area; and
b) There must be a buffer zone used between the proposed land use and the agricultural parcels of land, on the non-farm side of the agricultural area.
5.3 *
food production; livestock; All types of crop and livestock-based agricultural activities are supported on agricultural lands. 5.4 *
development and productive use of agricultural land; ALR subdivision; Lands designated as Rural are presently of a variety of sizes, but no Rural lands may be subdivided into parcel sizes smaller than 4.0 hectares (10 acres). 5.6 *
development and productive use of agricultural land; recreational use of agricultural land; On lands designated as Agricultural and Rural, but not within the Agricultural Land Reserve, outdoor recreation uses may be permitted where it can be demonstrated that there is no reduction in the amount of land being used for agricultural purposes and no impact on surrounding agricultural uses. 5.9  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR;

 

To preserve land in the ALR for current and future agricultural production, the District does not encourage or support applications for exclusion of land from the ALR unless such an application involves an inclusion of an equal or greater amount of land that is or will be appropriate for farming and there is a clear benefit to agriculture and the community. 5.11 *
 

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

The subdivision of any land within the ALR designated lands can be supported for agricultural activities only. 5.12 *
economic development; agri-tourism; To ensure the sustainability of the District's farm community as an integral part of agriculture on the Saanich Peninsula, agricultural activities, ancillary agriculture uses such as agri-tourism and the uses outlined in the Agricultural Land Commission Act Regulation 171/2002 Section 2(1) are encouraged on lands in the ALR. 5.14  
development and productive use of agricultural land; ALR subdivision; Lands designated as Agricultural are presently of a variety of sizes, but no Agricultural lands may be subdivided into parcel sizes smaller than 20.0 hectares (50 acres). 5.15 *

food production;

education;

food sales, access and procurement;

zoning;

farmers' market;

demonstration farm;

farmer training;

Those lands identified as “Special Agriculture” on Schedule B are dedicated to agricultural purposes. These lands were gifted to the District of North Saanich by the previous owners of the Sandown Racetrack to be a community legacy for the purpose of agriculture. The uses may include, for example, traditional agriculture, community gardens, agricultural research and practices education, farm markets or other agricultural/farm uses. 5.18  

food processing, storage, and distribution;

food sales, access and procurement 

farmers' market;

food processing;

food distribution;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

Encourage the establishment of local farmers markets and agricultural processing facilities to reduce the greenhouse gases emitted to transport food.  18.7.2  
waste management;

composting;

soil;

Continue and expand recycling programs with the Capital Regional District, support the Capital Regional District organics (food and garden waste) recycling, and explore connections between local agricultural growers’ fertilizer needs and organics recycled topsoil. 18.7.5 *

District of North Saanich Zoning Bylaw No. 1255

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

Sub-topic(s): ALR, amenity density zoning/contributions, beekeeping/apiculture, demonstration farm, farm home plate, farm residence maximum setback, livestock, pollinators, research and data collection, siting and coverage, zoning

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
food production;

livestock;

beekeeping/apiculture;

pollinators;

...lands in each zone may be used for the following uses subject to the conditions noted:...

...(c) the accessory keeping of bees provided that: (i) permissible as a secondary permitted use only, except for lands within the ALR or Rural Agricultural Zones, in which case the use may be the principal permitted use; and (ii) in Single Family Residential (R) Zones, permissible only as a non-commercial use, unless established in accordance with the home occupation provisions

107.1.2 (c)
food production; livestock;

...(d) the accessory keeping of roosters provided that

(i) permissible as a secondary permitted use only, except for lands within the ALR or Rural Agricultural Zones or where “farm use” is a permitted use, in which case the use may be the principal permitted use; and

(ii) in Single Family Residential (R) Zones, if all of the following conditions are satisfied:

A parcel must exceed 7,082 square metres (1.75 acres) in area;

B only one rooster is permissible;

C only when hens are present;

D the rooster must be kept in a secure coop overnight; and

E otherwise only in accordance with the more restrictive of setbacks and other regulations and conditions found in these zoning regulations or the District’s Animal Control Bylaw.

107.1.2 (d)
development and productive use of agricultural land;

siting and coverage;

ALR;

See document for detailed regulations of siting and coverage in Agricultural Zones (RA). 501.1.2 - 501.1.4 and 501.1.7
development and productive use of agricultural land;

farm home plate;

farm residence maximum setback;

siting and coverage;

ALR;

    Siting and Size of Residential Uses in the ALR
(a) Maximum Setbacks from Front Lot Line: Farm Residential Footprint 60 metres (196.9 ft.) (i) Lots narrower than 33 metres are exempt from the 60 metre setback and must fill the front of the lot to a maximum of 2000 m2 (ii) Lots greater than 60 ha are exempt from maximum setback
(b) Maximum Setbacks from Front Lot Line: Rear of Principle Farm Residence, or staff 50 metres (164 ft.) (to allow for a 10 metre back yard) (i) Lots greater than 60 ha are exempt from maximum setback
(c) Maximum Size of Farm Residential Footprint 2000 m2 ; plus (i) 35m2 for each staff accommodation space
501.1.7
education;

amenity density zoning/contributions;

demonstration farm;

research and data collection;

ALR;

Sandowne Community Agriculture Zone


Sandowne Community Agriculture Zone (P-6) is intended to provide for agricultural and farm uses, including related
exhibition, research and equestrian facilities or any combination thereof.  It consists of land donated by the municipality and private owners as part of a rezoning application.

507.6

See document for zoning regulations for additional Agricultural Zones (RA-2-RA-6).

District of North Saanich Animal Control Bylaw No. 751

Topic(s): Food Production, Urban Agriculture

Sub-topic(s): beekeeping/apiculture, livestock, pollinators, urban chickens

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

food production;

livestock;

FARM ANIMALS

5.1 No person shall keep or harbour any farm animal except an equine on any parcel of land zoned Residential, unless said parcel is at least 4000 square metres in area. Where a parcel has an area of more than 4000 square metres, but less than 8000 square metres, one farm animal may be kept. Where a parcel exceeds 8000 square metres, two farm animals may be kept.

5.2 No person shall keep or harbour an equine on any parcel of land zoned Residential, unless said parcel is at least 3400 square metres in area. Where a parcel has an area of at least 3400 square metres, but less than 6000 square metres, two animals of the equine family may be kept. Where a parcel exceeds 6000 square metres, four animals of the equine family may be kept. BL 1291

5.3 No person shall keep or harbour any farm animal on land situated in the following zones:...

See document for additional regulations related to farm animals.

section 5

food production;

urban agriculture;

livestock;

urban chickens;

POULTRY

9.1 No person shall keep more than the number of head of poultry specified in the following table in a Residential Zone:

1,115 m2 (12,000 sq. ft.) to 4,047 m2 (one acre) 10 head
over 0.4 ha (one acre) up to 8,094 m2 (two acres) 20 head
over 8,094 m2 (two acres) 30 head

 

See document for additional regulations regarding the keeping of poultry.

 

section 9

food production;

beekeeping/apiculture;

pollinators;

livesotck;

BEES

13.1 No person shall place any hive or other device for the housing of bees on any parcel of land unless the said hive or device is located at least 20 feet from any property line, except where such hive or device for the housing of bees is used in conjunction with the operation of a greenhouse.

section 13

 

City of Burnaby Official Community Plan

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

Sub-topic(s): ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, agricultural industry services, roads in agricultural land, farm diversification, irrigation and drainage

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

Language Rating

development and productive use of agricultural land;   continuing to preserve lands within the Agricultural Land Reserve for agricultural and limited other permitted uses; 9.3  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;   provision of a planned and supported land use framework to provide for the long term coexistence of agricultural uses with other adjacent land uses,
with specific mitigative measures as required;
9.3  

food production;

economic development;

agricultural industry services; supporting and encouraging the expansion of actual agricultural production and related services in the area; 9.3  
 

farm diversification;

urban gardens/orchard;

encouraging expansion and diversification of agriculture and related activities such as the opening of new areas to agricultural production and the continued City involvement in the Allotment Gardens Program; 9.3  
development and productive use of agricultural land; roads in agricultural land; ensuring that the location and construction of new roads and utility or communication corridors will have a minimal impact on farm holdings and operating activities; 9.3  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

encouraging the retention of larger land holdings, discouraging the creation of any further smaller parcels, and encouraging the consolidation of smaller parcels into larger units of agricultural land; 9.3  
water management; irrigation and drainage; helping to facilitate the improvement of agricultural infrastructure (e.g., irrigation, drainage, and diking works), and service and marketing activities that support the agricultural sector; 9.3  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR;

in conjunction with the Agricultural Land Commission, defining and maintaining Agricultural Land Reserve boundaries that are realistic and defensible in the longer term. 9.3