Utah County adopts new urban farming ordinance to support local food production

Utah County officials have taken a significant step to support local agriculture by approving an ordinance that will enhance urban farming provisions. During the recent commission meeting on October 20, 2021, the commissioners unanimously adopted changes to the Utah County code, aimed at making urban farming more feasible and sustainable for local farmers.

The ordinance, which aligns with recent state legislation, is designed to encourage agricultural practices within urban areas, recognizing the importance of maintaining a local food supply. Commissioner discussions highlighted the need for such measures, particularly as urban farmers face rising costs that threaten their operations. One commissioner noted that after touring local urban farms, it became clear that these initiatives are vital for preserving agricultural spaces in a predominantly urban environment.

The ordinance is expected to have a minimal financial impact on the county budget, as only a small number of residents currently engage in urban farming. However, the potential benefits for local food production and community sustainability were emphasized as key motivations for the decision.

In addition to the ordinance, the commissioners discussed the challenges faced by urban farmers regarding property tax increases. Some farmers have reported significant hikes in their property taxes, which have made it increasingly difficult to justify continuing their farming activities. The commission expressed a willingness to explore options for addressing these tax concerns, including the possibility of reviewing past assessments.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to revisit these topics in future sessions, ensuring that the needs of urban farmers are continuously addressed. The ordinance's implementation is set to begin on January 1, 2022, marking a proactive approach by Utah County to support its agricultural community and enhance local food sources.