The bill amends the Agricultural Protection Area Act in Idaho, specifically revising Section 67-9704 to require each board of county commissioners to establish an agricultural protection area ordinance. This ordinance must include a process for placing agricultural lands in protection areas for a minimum of twenty years, application requirements, evaluation standards, and a timeline for decision-making. Additionally, it introduces a new provision that allows for the designation of agricultural protection areas on planning maps without requiring a rezone or comprehensive plan amendment. The bill also repeals Section 67-9706 and replaces it with a new section that outlines the review and action process for agricultural protection area applications, including timelines for decisions and appeals.

Further amendments include revisions to Section 67-9709, which governs the addition and removal of land from agricultural protection areas, and Section 67-9710, which sets limitations on local regulations affecting these areas. Notably, the bill clarifies that non-agricultural land uses within agricultural protection areas are prohibited unless they contribute to agricultural production. The bill declares an emergency, allowing it to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 67-9703, 67-9704, 67-9706, 67-9709, 67-9710
Engrossment 1: 67-9704, 67-9706, 67-9709, 67-9710