§ 820-2.004. Findings.

(1)

It is the declared policy of this county to enhance and encourage agricultural operations within the county. It is the further intent of this county to provide to its residents proper notification of the county's recognition and support, through this division, of the right to farm. (County General Plan, Section 8-7).

(2)

Where non-agricultural land uses extend into agricultural areas or exist side by side, agricultural operations frequently can be the subjects of nuisance complaints. As a result, agricultural operators may be forced to cease or curtail their operations. Such actions discourage investments in farm improvements, to the detriment of adjacent agricultural uses and the economic viability of the county's agricultural industry as a whole. It is the purpose and intent of this division to prevent the loss to the county of its agricultural resources by clarifying the circumstances under which agricultural operations may be considered a nuisance.

(3)

An additional purpose of the ordinance codified in this division is to promote a good-neighbor policy by requiring notification of purchasers and users of property adjacent to or near agricultural operations of the inherent potential problems associated with such purchase or residential use. Such concerns may include, but are not limited to, the noise, odors, dust, chemicals, smoke, and hours of operation that may accompany agricultural operations. It is intended that, through mandatory disclosures, purchasers and users will better understand the impact of living near agricultural operations and be prepared to accept attendant conditions as the natural result of living in or near rural areas.

(4)

The ordinance codified in this division is intended to carry out and advance the county's agricultural resources goals, policies, and implementation measures as set forth in the conservation element of the county general plan.

(Ord. 97-38 § 2).