This bill aims to limit the authority of local governments in New Hampshire to impose zoning restrictions on land designated for agricultural fairs. Specifically, it amends RSA 674:16 by adding a new paragraph (IV-a) that prohibits cities, towns, or counties from adopting or amending zoning ordinances regarding land or structures used for agricultural fairs, provided these are owned by a corporation dedicated to promoting agricultural and mechanical skills. Additionally, the bill modifies RSA 672:1 to include references to "agricultural fairs" alongside agriculture, emphasizing their significance to the state's economy, environment, and quality of life. It also clarifies that agricultural activities, agricultural fairgrounds, and agritourism should not be unreasonably limited by municipal planning and zoning powers.

Furthermore, the bill revises the definition of "unreasonable interpretation" in RSA 672:1 to include the failure of local authorities to recognize agricultural fairground property as a traditional use of land in New Hampshire. This change aims to ensure that such properties are not subject to prohibitive zoning regulations. The fiscal impact of the bill is expected to result in indeterminable local expenditures, potentially less than $10,000 per municipality, due to legal costs and minor updates to zoning ordinances. The New Hampshire Association of Counties has indicated that there will be no impact on county governments.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 674:16, 672:1
HB1473 text: 674:16, 672:1