March is National Agricultural Month. Living in Genesee County, we know how important agriculture is to the local economy. Because of its prevalence, many properties are located in “Agricultural Districts”. Distinct from zoning, you might be wondering just what it means to be in an agricultural district, and whether it matters to you. While being in an agricultural district probably does not affect your day-to-day life, depending on your intended use of the property, there are a few things to consider when purchasing property in an agricultural district.

                First, agricultural districts are intended to promote and maintain land use for farming activities. This means there may be noise, dust, odors, or traffic associated with agricultural activities. To many, this won’t matter. But, if you are particularly sensitive to these activities, buying property in an agricultural district may not be right for you.

                Second, if you intend to purchase vacant land in an agricultural district with the intent to build a primary residence, it is important to know that public water and sewer systems which appear to be available to the parcel may be limited only to agricultural uses. So, that property you bought to build your beautiful home where you thought public water existed may not actually be so.

                Lastly, being in an agricultural district can have tax benefits if the primary use of your land (as determined by the assessor) is for agricultural purposes. However, merely being located in an agricultural district does not impact your taxes. Likewise, being in an agricultural district does not mandate that you use your property for farming or agricultural purposes. Properties can be removed or added to agricultural districts during periodic review periods.