Advisory committee to review agricultural small acreage zone

Summerland's agricultural advisory committee is being tasked with reviewing the A1-Agricultural Small Acreage Zone.

Summerland Council unanimously agreed this week to ask the committee to review the zone with the goal of improving the viability of small acreage farms.

The small acreage zone has been amended several times since its adoption in 2011.

The consideration of two variance applications for setbacks for greenhouses this year prompted council to request the review.

Of particular concern was the 30 m setback from the property line required for construction of buildings.

Depending on the conformation of the land in question, for example, a narrow rectangular shaped plot, this requirement could prevent construction without approval of a development variance permit.

The advisory committee will also consider any setback requirement in relation to the use of adjacent properties.

A smaller setback may be acceptable in those situations where the neighbouring property is used for agriculture.

Staff will provide the committee with background information including a map of A-1 zoned properties in the district and examples of similar zoning regulation in other communities.