This bill amends sections 303.21 and 519.21 of the Revised Code to restrict the authority of townships and counties in Ohio from adopting zoning resolutions that would regulate agricultural land under specific circumstances. The amendments clarify that no county rural zoning commission, board of county commissioners, or board of zoning appeals can prohibit the use of land for agricultural purposes or the construction of buildings related to agriculture, including those used for vinting and selling wine. Additionally, the bill removes provisions that previously allowed zoning regulations for agricultural activities in certain subdivisions, specifically those with lots of one acre or less, and limits the ability to regulate agriculture on larger lots.

The bill also introduces new definitions for terms such as "biodiesel," "biomass energy," and "agritourism," aligning them with existing definitions in the Revised Code. It emphasizes that zoning authorities cannot impose restrictions on agricultural activities, including farm markets and energy production facilities, as long as the land is designated for agricultural use. The bill aims to protect agricultural operations from local zoning regulations that could hinder their development and operation, thereby promoting agricultural interests in Ohio.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 303.21, 519.21