City of Kamloops OCP Kamplan 2004

Topic(s): Economic Development, Education, Food Sales, Access & Procurement, Food Self Reliance, Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Urban Agriculture, Waste Management, Water Management

Sub-topic(s): irrigation and drainage, food distribution, community food system education, food policy council, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, composting, urban gardens/orchard, recreational use of agricultural land, water restrictions and conservation

Region: Thompson-Nicola | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2004

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Topic Sub-Topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location Language Rating
water management;

recreational use of agricultural land;

irrigation and drainage;

water restrictions and conservation;

 The City will not permit the use of domestic water sources for irrigation purposes. section iii, 8.2; *
urban agriculture; 

food distribution;

urban gardens/orchard;

 Consider the use of City parks, school yards, rights-of-way, surplus properties, and redevelopment parcels at least in part for food production and distribution.  section iv, 5.2.6;  

food self reliance;

urban agriculture; 

urban gardens/orchard;

community kitchen;

 Encourage initiatives aimed at local food self-reliance such as community kitchens and community gardens. section iv, 5.2.7;  

food sales, access and procurement;

education;

 community food system education; Continue to promote agriculture in all schools, with emphasis on food production in the local region and school gardens to train children in growing skills and provide food for school meals. section iv, 5.2.10;  

education;

 community food system education; Continue to provide nutrition and food preparation courses, with emphasis on the importance of a sound diet and environmentally friendly growing, including "Food Safe" as elements of school curricula section iv, 5.2.11; *

economic development;

food sales, access and procurement;

 partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Promote the development of new businesses and the expansion of existing businesses that improve access to locally produced, affordable, and nutritious food. This could be done in partnership with business improvement associations, Community Futures, and Venture Kamloops. section iv, 5.2.17;  
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

food policy council;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;;

 Recognize the Kamloops Food Policy Council as the lead agency in the development of food policies.
 		 section iv, 5.2.19; *
waste management;  composting; The City shall continue to pursue the goal of a 50% reduction in the amount of solid waste going to landfills, in accordance with provincial guidelines and the Regional Waste Management Plan. The City will continue to use a variety of approaches including:...encouraging home composting ... Section VI 6.2 *
         

 

City of Revelstoke Food Charter

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

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

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

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

food sales, access and procurement;


nutrition and public health;

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

waste management;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

composting;
soil;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

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

food production;

   Support local and regional farmers and food producers.

food production;

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

 

Salt Spring Island Area Farm Plan

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

Sub-topic(s): community food system education, local procurement, seeds, GE/GMO, crops, wildlife and ecosystem management, partnerships/advocacy/liaising

Region: Islands Trust | Document Type: Agriculture Area Plan/Strategy | Year: 2008

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Topic Sub-Topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location
education; community food system education; Increase agricultural awareness of new and potential residents. Recommendation 8;
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Encourage the implementation of beneficial farm management practices. Recommendation 11;
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Explore potential programs that support environmental services on farms. Recommendation 12;
education; community food system education; Improve local agricultural literacy through the provision of agriculture focused public education activities and events. Recommendation 13;
education; community food system education; Increase agricultural education opportunities for children and youth. Recommendation 14;
education;   Increase local agricultural training and mentoring opportunities. Recommendation 16;
food sales, access and procurement;   Develop a coordinated approach to production and sale of locally
grown products.		 Recommendation 18;
food sales, access and procurement; local procurement; Encourage the development of local agricultural product purchasing
policies.		 Recommendation 21;

food production;

seeds;

crops;

 Increase local seed production capability. Recommendation 22;

food production;

GE/GMO;

crops;

 Encourage producers to adopt a genetically engineered (GE) free policy for locally grown agricultural products. Recommendation 23;

nutrition and public health;

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

   Establish local food safety protocols and standards that reflect the needs of small producers and processors. Recommendation 24;
policy partnerships, advocacy and development; partnerships/advocacy/liaising Participate in regional, provincial and national agricultural discussions. Recommendation 25

Please see document for detailed actions.

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

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

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

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

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location Language Rating
wildlife/environmental/pest management; climate change and greenhouse gases; The Local Trust Committee should support local food production as a significant factor in reducing food transportation costs and greenhouse gas emissions. A.6.2.15  
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

zoning;

agricultural advisory committee;

agricultural-government liaising;

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

food processing,storage and distribution;

development and productive use of agricultural land;

zoning;

food processing;

food storage;

ALR;

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

food processing,storage and distribution;

food sales, access and procurement;

food production;

economic development;

zoning;

farmers' markets;

food processing;

food storage;

farm worker accommodation;

ALR;

residential development;

agri-tourism;

agricultural advisory committee;

research and data collection;

livestock;

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

zoning;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 'benefit to agriculture' language;

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

food processing, storage and distribution;

economic development;

waste management;

zoning;

food processing;

demonstration farm;

agri-tourism;

ALR;

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

zoning;

transfer of development potential;

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

zoning;

food processing;

food storage;

amenity density zoning/contributions;

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

ALR exclusion;

ALR;

'benefit to agriculture' language;

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

zoning;

irrigation and drainage;

agricultural advisory committee;

agricultural-government liaising;

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

water management;

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

stormwater management;

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

water management;

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

zoning;

stormwater management;

buffer at agricultural edge;

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

zoning;

commercial development;

institutional development;

residential development;

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

food production;

GE/GMO;

seeds;

crops;

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

zoning;

irrigation and drainage;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 

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

 

 

 

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 Surrey Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 18020

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

Sub-topic(s): agri-tourism, agricultural impact assessment, agricultural industry services, ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, BC environmental farm plan, buffer at agricultural edge, climate change and greenhouse gases, community food system education, community kitchen, crops, disclosure agreement, farm diversification, farm incubator, farm retail/farm gate sales, farm traffic, farmer training, farmers' markets, food distribution, food policy council, food processing, grocery stores, irrigation and drainage, leasing of land for agriculture, livestock, local food culture, new entrants to farming, nuisance complaints, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, pesticide and pest management, pilot project, pollinators, protection of farming development permit area, research and data collection, roads in agricultural land, soil, urban gardens/orchard, waste to energy, wildlife and ecosystem management

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

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

ALR exclusion;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 Maintain the integrity of the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) and its existing boundaries. E3.1;  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

soil;

ALR;

 Protect and support the continued designation and use of agricultural land for agricultural purposes regardless of soil types and capabilities. Encourage locating non-soil based agricultural structures on less productive soils, where feasible, in order to fully utilize prime soil resources.
 		 E3.3; *
development on agricultural land;   Encourage the continued use of farmland located outside of the ALR for agriculture purposes, subject to the development of an approved secondary plan. E3.4;  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

 Avoid the fragmentation of ALR lands. Limit the subdivision of land within the ALR to greater than 4 ha (10 ac). Limit the subdivision of designated agriculture land outside the ALR to greater than 2 ha (5 ac). Encourage the amalgamation of lots in agricultural areas.
  		 E3.5; *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR exclusion;

ALR;

agricultural impact assessment;

 Require 2 ha of land, within Surrey, of equivalent or better soil capacity, to be included into the ALR for each 1 ha of land excluded from the ALR with the submission of an Agricultural Impact Assessment detailing how this conversion provides a net benefit to agriculture in Surrey. E3.6; *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

roads in agricultural land;

ALR;

 Ensure that the potential fragmentation of agricultural lands by linear development such as new road construction, hydro corridors or pipeline or road upgrades, does not negatively impact the viability of farm operations or access to farm parcels.   E3.7; *
land access;

ALR;

leasing of land for agriculture;

 Maximize the productive utilization of agricultural land through such means as:
 Leasing City-owned ALR land to farmers
 Amending by-laws, policies and other regulations, as appropriate, to support agricultural production and innovation.
 		 E3.8; *
 

research and data collection;

 Support Surrey-based research and development of innovative production technologies and practices, such as ‘vertical farming’, roof-top farming and advanced irrigation and fertilization systems.
 		 E3.9;  

economic development;

food production;

farm diversification;

crops;

 Encourage the diversification of agricultural operations and the production of new crops and commodities, particularly high-value crops and those serving new markets with growth potential.
 		 E3.10;  
waste management; waste to energy; Encourage innovation in the management and recycling of agriculture and food waste, including waste-to-energy projects in the agri-food sector such as anaerobic digestions and other means of converting waste into a resource. E3.12; *
land access;

farm incubator;

new entrants to farming;

  Support programs that help new farmers overcome financial and other barriers to accessing land (includes but is not limited to incubator farms). E3.13; *
education;

community food system education;

farmer training;

 Work with local secondary and postsecondary institutions to support training and education programs in agriculture and food systems.
 		 E3.14;  
education;

research and data collection;

farmer training;

 Work with post-secondary institutions to facilitate agricultural research partnerships and technology transfer to local farmers.
 		 E3.15; *
education; local food culture; Support public awareness programs and events to highlight the importance of agriculture to Surrey’s economy. Showcase local producers and increase public awareness of farming practices.  E3.16; *
 

roads in agricultural land;

farm traffic;

 Ensure Surrey has a safe and convenient transportation network that supports agriculture, including access between farms and markets, farm vehicle travel routes and direct access between fields and farm operations.
 		 E3.17; *

water management; 

food processing, storage and distribution;

food production;

irrigation and drainage;

crops;

food processing;

livestock;

 Support land owners and senior levels of government to improve access to an adequate and safe water supply for agricultural operations such as livestock watering, crop irrigation, produce washing and food processing uses.
 		 E3.18; *
economic development; agricultural industry services; Support the development of ancillary agricultural services necessary for the viability of agricultural operations, in appropriate locations.
 		 E3.20;  

food processing, storage and distribution;

 

food processing;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Partner with senior levels of government, commodity groups and industry associations to maintain and grow the food packaging and processing industries in Surrey. E3.21;  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; nuisance complaints; Protect farming and agri-food operations from adjacent urban impacts such as traffic, flooding, nuisance complaints, trespassing and noxious substances.
 		 E3.22;  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

protection of farming development permit area;

buffer at agricultural edge;

ALR;

 Protect and enhance the interface between urban areas and the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) by using fencing, landscaping buffers and building separations between urban and agricultural lands, in accordance with DP4 of the Implementation Section of this OCP.
 		 E3.23; *

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

protection of farming development permit area;

buffer at agricultural edge;

ALR;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

Support density increases in areas adjacent to the ALR, as part of a comprehensively planned neighbourhood, where the required agricultural buffers are widened proportionally to the increase in density (see DP4 of the Implementation Section of this OCP), where cluster housing is used and where natural features such as watercourses, steep slopes, tree preservation, valuable ecosystems and sensitive soils are accommodated.

 E3.24; *

food sales, access and procurement;

farmers' markets;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

 

 Support the growth and development of farm markets and stands selling local products directly to consumers.
 		 E3.25;  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; buffer at agricultural edge; Carefully plan public areas and recreational trails in areas adjacent to farmland. Provide sufficient separation and physical barriers such as fencing, plantings and topographic features, to reduce conflicts between recreational uses and farming.
 		 E3.26; *
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; disclosure agreement; Use Agricultural Disclosure Agreements, at various stages of development, adjacent to agricultural areas to increase awareness of owners about the presence and implications of living near agricultural activity. E3.27; *
education;

local food culture;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising

 Raise public awareness and promote and celebrate local agriculture in Surrey through initiatives such as farm tours, media materials, community events, and by encouraging partnerships with producer associations and grocery stores to promote local farm products.
 		 E3.28; *

food sales, access and procurement;

economic development;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

agri-tourism;

 Explore agri-tourism opportunities for producers to diversify their farm operations, create an identifiable brand, and sell more products and services directly to consumers. E3.29; *
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

BC environmental farm plan;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

 Encourage sound environmental agricultural and farm practices by working with farmers to participate in the Provincial Environmental Farm Plan program in order to promote clean and healthy air, water and soils.
 		 E3.30;  
waste management;   Encourage the management and recycling of manure and agricultural wastes in a sustainable manner. E3.31;  
wildlife/environmental/pest management; pollinators; Support programs and opportunities that help support pollinators and their valuable role in the continued viability of farming operations.
 		 E3.32;  
wildlife/environmental/pest management; wildlife and ecosystem management; Encourage Best Management Practices for riparian areas and streams in agricultural areas in order to support fish populations in accordance with the requirements of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) and the Provincial Water Act, as amended. E3.33;  
waste management;

pilot project;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

waste to energy;

 Explore opportunities related to recovering heat, generating clean energy and other resources and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by recycling food wastes and other organic materials through pilot projects and partnerships.  E3.34;  

food sales, access and procurement;

urban agriculture;

farmers' markets;

urban gardens/orchard;

 grocery stores;

community kitchen;

 Improve access to healthy and affordable food, particularly in lower-income neighbourhoods,through the planning and implementation of community gardens,farmer’s markets, urban agriculture projects,community kitchens, neighbourhood grocery stores and food assistance programs, as appropriate.
 		 F5.1; *
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

food policy council;

 Create a Food Policy Council and Surrey Food Charter to help develop formalized structures for tackling food security issues. Work in conjunction with the Agricultural and Food Security Advisory Committee. F5.2; *

food sales, access and procurement;

food processing, storage and distribution;

farmers' markets;

farm retail/farm gate sales;

 Encourage and support the development of local on-farm markets and urban farmer’s markets for local, direct food distribution in appropriate locations.
 		 F5.3; *
urban agriculture; urban gardens/orchard; Examine means of how to integrate locally supported agriculture (e.g. community gardens, community orchards, urban agriculture and small farms) into existing neighbourhoods and new areas of urban development.
 		 F5.4;  

urban agriculture;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

urban gardens/orchard;

pesticide and pest management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Partner with local neighbourhood associations, school districts and non-profit groups to encourage, organize, develop and manage community gardens, rooftop farming, fruit trees and other edible landscapes on public and private lands, in suitable urban locations while also using appropriate, integrated pest management practices.  F5.6; *
food sales, access and procurement;

farmers' markets;

food distribution;

urban gardens/orchard;

 grocery stores;

 Encourage mixed-use neighbourhood design and redevelopment to include small and mid-size grocery stores (e.g. 300—1,850 sq. m), seasonal farmer’s markets and open space for community gardens.
 		 F5.7; *

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

nutrition and public health;

food access, sales and procurement;

 partnerships/advocacy/liaising; Support the efforts and programs of Fraser Health and other non -governmental organizations that promote access to healthy nutritious foods.
 		 F5.8;  

policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

nutrition and public health;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

research and data collection;;

 Assist non-profit agencies and public/private non-profit partnerships engaging in anti-hunger, nutrition and agriculture activities by sharing data for planning and by implementing and evaluating programs.
 		 F5.9;  
food access, sales and procurement;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Work with non-profit organizations such as food banks, food agencies, food gleaners, and food hamper supporters to ensure healthy food options are available to all residents of Surrey regardless of location or income level. F.10;  

 

City of Richmond Agricultural Viability Strategy

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

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

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

View policy:  HTML PDF

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

agricultural advisory committee;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

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

ALR;

ALR subdivision;

ALR exclusion;

'benefit to agriculture' language;

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

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

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

development and productive use of agricultural land;

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

agricultural impact assessment;

ALR;

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

Maintain an Agricultural Data System.

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

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

ALR;

irrigation and drainage;

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

signage in agricultural areas;

roads in agricultural land;

farm traffic;

ALR;

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

agrocultural advisory committee;

agricultural impact aseesement;

ALR;

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

covenants;

buffer at agricultural edge;

residential development;

ALR;

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

policy partnerships. advocacy and development;

wildlife, environmental and pest management;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

agricultural advisory committee;;

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

• land use

• drainage, irrigation and ditch maintenance

• land clearing

• weed control

• crop loss due to wildlife and birds

 24

education;

wildlife, environmental and pest management;

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

community food system education;

signs in agricultural areas;

local food culture;

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 30
education;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

agricultural advisory committee;

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

covenants;

ALR;

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

development and productive use of agricultural land;

land access;

 

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

zoning;

greenhouses;

ALR;

leasing of land for agriculture;

Maximize the agricultural land available for agricultural uses:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 35

economic development;

farm diversification;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

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

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

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

economic development;

education;

 new entrants to farming;

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


b) Encouraging retiring farmers to apprentice new ones;


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


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

 39

 

City of Vernon Official Community Plan Bylaw #5470

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

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

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

View policy:  HTML PDF

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

ALR;

ALR exclusion;

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

15.2

 *

development and productive use of agricultural land;

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

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

development and productive use of agricultural land;

economic development;

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

ALR subdivision;


recreational use of agricultural land;


residential development;

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

roads in agricultural land;


signage in agricultural areas;


recreational use of agricultural land;


ALR;

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

food sales, access and procurement;

urban agriculture;

farmers' markets;


urban gardens/orchard;

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

urban gardens/orchard;


amenity density zoning/contributions;


covenants;


residential development;

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

 

City of North Vancouver Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 8400

Topic(s): Policy Partnerships, Advocacy & Development, Urban Agriculture

Sub-topic(s): edible landscaping, composting, beekeeping/apiculture, urban farm, pollinators, community food system education, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, climate change and greenhouse gases, urban gardens/orchard

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

View policy:  HTML PDF

Topic Sub-Topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

Language rating
urban agriculture; urban gardens/orchard; Explore ways to activate laneways in the City including opportunities for uses, pedestrian and cycling activity as well as stormwater and urban agriculture. 1.3.9;  

urban agriculture;

urban gardens/orchard;

edible landscaping;composting;

beekeeping/apiculture;

urban farm;

pollinators;

 Consider the potential for food production on public and private land including rooftops, community gardens, micro gardens, composting, urban farming, orchards, beehives and edible landscaping on residential boulevards, park land and Rights Of Way. 3.4.2;  
education; community food system education; Increase public awareness and education regarding food production and consumption. 3.4.3;  
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Collaborate with various levels of government, local and regional partners, businesses and other stakeholders in implementing policies that effectively promote sustainable food systems.  3.4.4;  
urban agriculture; climate change and greenhouse gases; Continue to expand urban agriculture as a way of increasing food security and reducing the greenhouse gas emissions associated with food production, processing and transportation. 3.4.5;  

City of Richmond Official Community Plan

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

Sub-topic(s): 'benefit to agriculture' language, agricultural advisory committee, ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, BC environmental farm plan, buffer at agricultural edge, climate change and greenhouse gases, commercial development, community food system education, edible landscaping, farm diversification, farm incubator, farm worker accommodation, farmer training, food distribution, food recovery/gleaning/donation, irrigation and drainage, livestock, local food culture, mobile/street food vending, new entrants to farming, partnerships/advocacy/liaising, protection of farming development permit area, recreational use of agricultural land, residential development, roads in agricultural land, urban gardens/orchard, wildlife and ecosystem management, zoning

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2012

View policy:  HTML PDF

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

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

food self reliance;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

climate change and greenhouse gases;

 Strengthen community resilience to projected global changes by increasing local self reliance and resource security (e.g., food security, energy security, groundwater security, intertidal ecological security). pg 2-7  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

ALR exclusion;

ALR subdivision;

'benefit to agriculture' language;

 Maintain the existing ALR boundary and do not support a loss of ALR land unless there is a substantial net benefit to agriculture and the agricultural community is consulted; pg 7-2 *
education; community food system education; Increase public awareness of farming practises, farm products and support educational programs that provide information on agriculture and its importance to the local economy and local food systems. pg 7-3  
policy partnerships, advocacy and development;

agricultural advisory committee;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

 Build strong alliances with farmers and work with the City’s Agricultural Advisory Committee so that issues and policies that affect agriculture and impact farmers are addressed; pg 7-4  
economic development; new entrants to farming; Pursue incentives to increase actively farmed agricultural land and encourage new farmers; pg 7-4  
economic development; farm diversification; encourage value-added business initiatives; pg 7-4  
nutrition and public health;   Support farm activities which follow normal farm practices and do not create health hazards; pg 7-4  

economic development;

development and productive use of agricultural land;

 residential development; Consider agricultural projects which achieve viable farming while avoiding residential development as a principal use; pg 7-4  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

roads in agricultural land;

 Discourage, wherever possible, roads in the ALR, except as noted on the Existing Status of Road Improvements in the ALR Map; pg 7-4  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

buffer at agricultural edge;

ALR;

 Ensure that land uses adjacent to, but outside of, the ALR are compatible with farming by establishing effective buffers on the non-agricultural lands; pg 7-4 *
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

ALR;

protection of farming development permit area;

 Designate all parcels abutting, but outside of, the ALR boundary as Development Permit Areas with Guidelines for the purpose of protecting farming; pg 7-5 *
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

ALR;

buffer at agricultural edge;

roads in agricultural land;

zoning;

residential development;

institutional development;

commercial development;

 Where there is an intervening road between the ALR and the non-ALR lands:• encourage appropriate landscaping within the road right-of-way in front of the non-agricultural lands (e.g., between the road curb, any sidewalk and the property line) through the servicing agreement process;• encourage an appropriate landscaped setback on the non-agricultural lands (e.g., 3 m or 9.84 ft. to parking and 6 m or 19.68 ft. to buildings) through the: - Rezoning and/or Building Permit process for industrial and institutional uses; - Rezoning and/or Development Permit process for commercial and multiple family residential sites; - Rezoning and/or Subdivision process for single family residential sites; pg 7-5 *
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; recreational use of agricultural land; Minimize conflicts among agricultural, recreation, conservation and urban activities; pg 7-5  
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

ALR;

residential development;

 Continue to encourage the use of the ALR land for farming and discourage non-farm uses (e.g., residential); pg 7-5  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

ALR subdivision;

'benefit to agriculture' language;

 Limit the subdivision of agricultural land into smaller parcels, except where possible benefit ts to agriculture can be demonstrated; pg 7-5 *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

farm worker accommodation;

 Seasonal farm labour accommodation, as an additional residential use, may be considered so long as the accommodation is accessory to the principal agricultural purpose and helps to support a farm operation in the Agricultural Land Reserve; pg 7-5 *
water management; irrigation and drainage; Facilitate the improvement of irrigation and drainage infrastructure to provide secure and affordable water supplies that support the agricultural sector; pg 7-5 *
wildlife/environmental/pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

BC environmental farm plan;

 Explore with farmers ways to protect the Ecological Network values of their lands such as:• explore programs contained in the 2012 Environmentally Sensitive Area Management Strategy;• encourage environmentally sound agricultural practices by promoting the BC Environmental Farm Program;• explore the viability of leasing agricultural lands that have important environmental values from farmers to manage these lands for both agricultural and environmental goals;• explore mechanisms that compensate farmers for the loss of cultivation to maintain key ecological objectives. pg 7-6  
urban agriculture;

urban gardens/orchard;

edible landscaping;

 Continue to seek out opportunities to collaborate with others to increase urban agriculture, the number of community gardens, edible landscape and food-bearing trees; pg 7-8  

urban agriculture;

food production;

urban gardens/orchard;

edible landscaping;

residential development;

 Encourage the retention of open space for food production (e.g., edible landscaping, gardens, rooftop gardens, food bearing trees) for the use of residents in new residential developments; pg 7-8 *
education;

farm incubator;

farmer training;

 Continue to support incubator farms in order to help new farmers develop the necessary skills and their businesses; pg 7-9 *

food production;

 livestock; Explore the keeping of small animals (e.g., poultry and bees) on a limited basis on small agricultural parcels, in consultation with the AAC, ALC and Vancouver Coastal Health pg 7-9  
food sales, access and procurement; mobile/street food vending;  Explore local street vending opportunities. pg 7-9  

food processing, storage and distribution;;

food production;

policy partnerships, advocacy and liaising;

partnerships/advocacy/liaising;

food distribution;

 Promote available programs and continue to support community organizations involved with food production/distribution (e.g., Richmond Local Food Guide). pg 7-9  

economic development;

food sales, access and procurement;

 local food culture; Develop a “Buy Local” marketing initiative to increase the demand for locally grown agricultural products, in partnership with Tourism Richmond, Chamber of Commerce, the RFI, and others. pg 7-10 *

education;

nutrition and public health;

 community food system education; Continue to support programs that promote healthy eating and increase food-related skills and knowledge about sustainable food systems; pg 7-10  

food sales, access and procurement;

urban agriculture;

 food recovery/gleaning/donation; Encourage local gardeners to grow extra produce or distribute produce they don’t use to the Richmond Food Bank or other community groups; pg 7-10 *

education;

nutrition and public health;

 community food system education Support programs that encourage children and families to learn healthy eating habits. pg 7-10  

food sales, access and procurement;

waste management;

 food recovery/gleaning/donation; Support the efforts of community groups and the private sector to establish initiatives that divert recoverable food from the pre-waste stream for redistribution to local food banks; pg 7-11  
waste management;

composting;

residential development;

commercial development;

 Develop strategies to encourage organic waste diversion from multifamily housing and commercial properties; pg 7-11  
waste management; composting; Support the recycling and re-use of organic waste; pg 7-11  

 

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