The bill aims to enhance and protect agritourism in Washington State by amending existing laws and introducing new provisions that support agritourism activities as a means to stabilize the agricultural industry and rural communities. It designates the Department of Agriculture to facilitate agritourism through its rules and programs, and it introduces a new section that allows agritourism activities on lands zoned for agricultural production without the need for conditional use permits. Additionally, the bill prohibits counties from enacting regulations that unreasonably restrict agritourism while ensuring compliance with public health, safety, and building codes.

Moreover, the bill defines "agritourism activity" to include a variety of recreational, educational, and entertainment activities that engage the public with rural life. It emphasizes the importance of integrating agritourism into the rural development framework to promote traditional lifestyles and protect natural landscapes. The legislation also mandates that counties and cities review and update their development regulations to align with the new provisions, particularly regarding the conservation of agricultural lands and the promotion of agritourism. A severability clause is included to ensure that if any part of the act is invalidated, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 15.04.402, 36.70A.060, 36.70A.177