Agriculture (ALR)

The District of Kent has a strong agricultural heritage and some of the most fertile land in British Columbia. Recognizing the importance of agriculture, the District's Official Community Plan (OCP) sets goals and objectives to sustain, enhance, develop and retain viable farming and agricultural uses.

Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) Applications

Approximately 50% of the total land area in the District is located within the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR). The ALR is a provincial zone dedicating agricultural as the priority use, and non-agricultural uses are restricted by the ALC's legislation and regulation.

If you are considering applying for an exclusion, inclusion, subdivision, boundary realignment or non-farm use for your ALR property, review the ALC's before you start an application information.

Applications must be submitted to the ALC before they will be considered by Council. The ALC accepts applications through their online portal.

Agricultural Resource Links for the District

Farm Home Plate Regulations

The farm home plate requirement applies to any Agricultural Zone and all other Zone located within the ALR.

Read the District of Kent Farm Home Plate Guide.

Agricultural Programs and Support

Are you a farmer or thinking about starting a farm? These provincial agricultural programs and networks may interest you.

Environmental Farm Plan Program - assists farmers in developing an environmental action plan to reduce the possibility of accidental harm to soil, air, water and biodiversity values.

B.C. Land Matching Program – provides land matching and business support services to new farmers looking for land to farm as well as landowners interested in finding someone to farm their land.

Young Agrarians – a network for new and young ecological and organic farmers offering access and support to a variety farm programs.

Additional links:

Guide for Residences in the ALR

Do you live on ALR land or are thinking about building a residence on ALR land?

Check out our Residences in the ALR Guide for information on land use requirements, zoning, and application resources.

Agri-tourism Accommodation in the ALR

An agri-tourism accommodation (ATA) use is an opportunity for farmers to offer sleeping accommodations (agri-tourism sleeping units) in relation to their agri-tourism activities permitted under ALR Use Regulation.

If you are just learning about agri-tourism, check out our handy guide. For those looking to set-up agri-tourism accommodations, make sure you download the Agri-Tourism Business Licence Application Form.