The Linn County Board of Supervisors has unanimously approved an ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances regarding agricultural tourism and agricultural experiences in Linn County. The new ordinance streamlines the approval process for the majority of agritourism operations, reducing off-site parking requirements and reducing or eliminating application submittal requirements. The Linn County Planning & Development Department, in collaboration with the Linn County Food Systems Council, and Linn County farmers who already host agricultural experience activities on their property, created the ordinance allowing for a wide range agricultural experiences on Linn County farms.
Agricultural experiences are agriculture-related activities that promote agriculture or educate the public about agriculture on a farm that is open to the public. The agricultural experiences and activities offered are secondary to the agricultural production that takes place on the farm. Agricultural experiences in Iowa present a unique opportunity to combine the economic benefits of tourism with the state’s one-of-a-kind agricultural destinations. Agricultural experiences include but are not limited to:
- You-pick operations
- Corn mazes
- Tractor rides
- Food services
- Event venues
”This ordinance is the result of cooperation between Planning & Development staff and Linn County farmers. The time and expertise shared by local farmers and agritourism business owners with staff has greatly improved our product, and I would like to thank everyone who helped us in this process,” Linn County Planning & Development Director Charlie Nichols.
View a copy of the agritourism ordinance.