Zoning and Health Considerations in Agritourism
Agritourism businesses are subject to zoning and other regulations related to individual and environmental health. Such regulations are determined and enforced by federal, state, county, and/or municipal governments. Regulations can vary greatly by region, and it’s important to be aware of and comply with regulations related to operating an agritourism business.
Zoning is “the division of a city or county by legislative regulations into areas (zones), specifying the uses allowable for the property in these areas” (Entrepreneur). Zoning ordinances can often be seen as a hurdle for beginning agritourism businesses. One survey found 13% of agritourism businesses surveyed had difficulties with zoning (University of Tennessee Extension 2005), and an online survey found that more than 50% had difficulties (Eckert 2007). Ordinances may prohibit particular commercial activities or require that specific facilities and/or structures be present. In some regions, ordinances have been altered to be more accommodating for farms involved in agritourism.
Zoning ordinances are generally handled by county or municipal governments. You can contact these entities to determine which ordinances may be in place in your area. The nature of zoning ordinances and the ability to obtain zoning variances will vary greatly with each locality. Click here for a discussion of zoning and home-based businesses.
Examples of Zoning Ordinances
- Limiting or prohibiting specific commercial recreational activities in an area
- Requiring flush toilets and other facilities for sanitation
- Prohibiting attractions, restaurants, or bed and breakfasts in certain areas
- Regulating location and size of structures
Like zoning, there are legislative regulations in place aimed at protecting the health of both individuals and the environment. Health regulations will vary from place to place, but generally your local health department will handle these. Food preparation and safety, and waste disposal regulations, are often especially important considerations. Licenses and permits are generally required. Your County/ Local Extension Agent should be able to provide the necessary information.
Examples of Health Regulations
- Limiting the number of visitors allowed on a “home stay” farm or ranch
- Requiring one or more persons involved with food preparation or handling to obtain food handlers’ permits or certificates
- Requiring certain types of equipment needed for food storage
- Requiring a certain amount of drinking water be available for visitors and placing requirements on water quality
- Enforcing specific requirements for septic systems and sewage disposal
The Bottom Line
Due to the variability of zoning and heath regulations, it is important to check with local, county, state, and federal governments, and other organizations to identify which regulations may apply to your agritourism business. Useful agencies to contact include:
- Chambers of Commerce
- Secretary of State’s Office
- Tax Commission or Department
- U.S. Department of Agriculture
- Agritourism Organizations and
- State Agencies or Departments of Health/Agriculture
- County/Municipal Health Departments
- County/University Extension Offices
- Zoning or Planning Boards
- Economic Development Offices
- Tourism or Visitors Bureaus References and Sources for Further Information
Source: Resources for Agritourism Development, article; Agricultural Marketing Resource Center