The State of Ohio, and Fairfield Township, are protective of, and serve to promote, the interest of agriculture. In most cases agriculturally related endeavors are exempt from zoning standards. (Example: A livestock barn will be exempt from the limit on the number of outbuildings and a permit will generally not be required). On the other hand, putting an addition on to your personal residence, installing a swimming pool, or similar is NOT considered agriculturally exempt as the size of your home (or attached garage) or related improvement is seen as having little bearing on your agricultural activity. A zoning certificate would be required. Whether or not land meets the CAUV acreage requirement, the land use can still be agricultural for zoning purposes if it fits within the definition of agriculture. Please note that the definition of agriculture as defined by the state of Ohio can be somewhat vague and continues to change as case law evolves. "When in doubt, check it out." We are happy to assist with any agriculturally exempt questions you may have including helping you ascertain if your project and property meet the agriculturally exempt guidelines. Please contact us at (330) 853-7132 or email zoning@fairfieldtownshipohio.com for more information prior to commencing your project. We are also happy to provide agricultural exemption confirmation letters for applicable projects upon request. 1http://ohioline.osu.edu/cd-fact/1267.html |