This bill amends the Agricultural Protection Area Act in Idaho by revising several sections to enhance the establishment and management of agricultural protection areas. It mandates that each board of county commissioners create an agricultural protection area ordinance that includes processes for placing agricultural lands in these areas for a minimum of twenty years, application requirements, evaluation standards, and a timeline for decision-making. The bill also introduces a new section that outlines the review and action process for agricultural protection area applications, specifying that decisions must be made within sixty days and allowing for appeals to the board of county commissioners.

Additionally, the bill repeals the previous Section 67-9706 and introduces new provisions regarding the addition and removal of land from agricultural protection areas, as well as limitations on local regulations affecting these areas. It emphasizes that local laws cannot restrict agricultural practices unless they conflict with recognized farming practices or zoning designations. The bill also clarifies that non-agricultural land uses within agricultural protection areas are prohibited unless they contribute to agricultural production, ensuring the integrity of these designated areas. An emergency clause is included, allowing the act 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