City of Pitt Meadows Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2352

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

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

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

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

recreational use of agricultural land;

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

 4.2.1 (f) *

development and productive use of agricultural land;

land access;

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

ALR subdivision;

ALR;

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

ALR;

residential development;

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

farm worker accommodation;

residential development;

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

development and productive use of agricultural land;

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

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

buffer at agricultural edge;

covenants;

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

ALR;

residential development;

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

development and productive use of agricultural land;

urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning;

zoning;

residential development;

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

roads in agricultural land;

farm traffic;

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

water restrictions and conservation;

irrigation and drainage;

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

ALR;

ALR subdivision;

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

ALR;

ALR subdivision;

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

Township of Langley Official Community Plan

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

Sub-topic(s): ALR, ALR exclusion, ALR subdivision, buffer at agricultural edge, food processing, residential development, zoning

Region: Metro Vancouver | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: consolidated 2015

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Topic Sub-topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location Language Rating
urban-agriculture conflict/edge planning; buffer at agricultural edge; The boundary between urban areas and rural areas should be carefully planned and designed to create a clear limit on urbanization, to create an attractive edge that integrates Langley’s rural/agricultural character into its communities, and to minimize negative impacts on rural areas.  
This can be achieved by: 
• creating greenbelts between urban zoned land and the ALR, 
• ensuring that the urban/rural boundary is “defendable”, and 
• using park land as a buffer between urban and agricultural uses		 4.1; *
food processing, storage and distribution;

zoning;

food processing;

• Council shall consider the development of agricultural processing facilities as allowed by the British Columbia Land Commission and the expansion of existing industrial facilities outside the Designated Industrial Growth Areas.

 4.1;  
development and productive use of agricultural land; ALR; The detailed Community Plan for each Designated Urban Growth Area shall provide:....Holders of non-farm lands of a lesser agricultural capability (classes 4 to 7) shall be encouraged to retain the Agricultural Land Reserve classification of their lands so that a future, yet to be designated, use for their lands may be identified. These lands may be designated as Special Reserve in the OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN. 4.1; *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

ALR exclusion;

 • Council shall not support any application for exemption of lands from the Agricultural Land Reserve for commercial, residential or industrial development purposes, unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of Council that an adequate demand exists for the proposed use and no other Non-Agricultural Land Reserve area in Langley can satisfy the requirements of that demand.  The procedure established by the Land Commission for exclusion of lands from the Agricultural Land Reserve will be followed at all times. 4.5;  
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

residential development;

 • Residential uses in the Agricultural Land Reserve will be permitted only where no loss of agricultural production is demonstrated and when in accordance with the Land Commission Act, existing zoning and development permit bylaws. 4.5; *
development and productive use of agricultural land;

ALR;

ALR subdivision;

 • Subdivision of agricultural lands shall not be permitted unless it is for the demonstrated purpose of creating a more efficient agricultural use of land. 4.5; *

 

District of Sechelt Bylaw 492, 2010 Official Community Plan

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

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

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

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

urban containment/growth boundary;


commercial development;


residential development;

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

ALR subdivision;


urban containment/growth boundary;


ALR;

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

ALR subdivision;


ALR;

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

food processing, storage and distribution;

food sales, access and procurement;

economic development;;

farmers' markets;


food processing;


farm retail/farm gate sales;


farm diversification;


agri-tourism;

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

water management;

waste management;

water rate for agriculture;

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

development and productive use of agricultural land;

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

roads in agricultural land;


buffer at agricultural edge;


residential development;

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

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

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

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

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

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

 8.7; *
food production;

aquaculture;

livestock;

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

ALR exclusion;


ALR;

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

 

District of Lillooet Zoning Bylaw No 400, 2011 Schedule A

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

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

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

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

 Buffers

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

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

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

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

3. Within a buffer area:

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

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

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

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

 4.20
food production; livestock;

Keeping of Animals

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

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

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

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

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

 

Village of Pemberton Official Community Plan

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

Sub-topic(s): amenity density zoning/contributions, buffer at agricultural edge, community kitchen, greenhouses, protection of farming development permit area, urban containment/growth boundary, urban gardens/orchard

Region: Squamish-Lillooet | Document Type: Official Community Plan | Year: 2012

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Topic Sub-Topic Policy or Policy Excerpt Document Location

food sales, access and procurement;

development and productive use of agricultural land;

food production;

 


 

 •  Preserve and facilitate the enhancement of productive farmland;
•  Promote local food production and sales;
•  Accommodate community supported agricultural opportunities and land uses; and
•  Support a wide range of agricultural practices and preserve land to build local food protection capacity.
 		 5.8.1;
development and productive use of agricultural land; urban containment/growth boundary; The lands within the UGB (Urban Growth Boundary) contain areas that are designated
for urban growth. A fundamental aspect of this policy is the preservation of agriculturally designated lands. Further the criterion contained within Schedule A further emphasizes the importance of protecting and enhancing agricultural lands.		 5.8.2.1;
urban agriculture; urban gardens/orchard;
greenhouses;		 The Village supports the inclusion of community gardens and greenhouses to encourage residents to grow their own food. 5.8.2.6;

urban agriculture;

economic developtment and agri-tourism;

amenity density zoning/contributions;


greenhouses;


community kitchen;

 Agri-tourism amenities including a downtown multiuse public facility and community greenhouses, and community kitchens among eligible contributions for desnity bonusing. See document for details. Schedule B;
urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

protection of farming development permit area;


buffer at agricultural edge;

 Development Permit Area No. 3 - Enhancement of Agriculture A Development Permit is required for areas which are hereby established and designated as DPA#3 within Map C for the purpose of the protection of farming as permitted in accordance with Section 919.1(1) (c) of the Local Government Act. See document for details.. 7.3

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

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

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

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

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

buffer at agricultural edge;

covenants;

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

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

water management;

stormwater management;

irrigation and drainage;

commercial development;

institutional development;

residential development;

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

urban-agriculture conflict and edge planning;

water management;

wildlife/environmental/pest management;

wildlife and ecosystem management;

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

amenity density zoning/contributions;

food processing;

food storage;

urban gardens/orchard;

farmland trust;

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

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

 H.3.2.1 (e )  

 

Supplementary Information

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

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

Policy Development and Public Consultation

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

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

Policy Adoption

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

Policy Implementation and Outcomes

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

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

Policy Recommendations

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

Related Policies and Processes

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

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

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

 

References

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

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

View policy:  HTML PDF

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. 
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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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