The California Land Conservation Act of 1965 (Williamson Act), Government Code 51200-51297.4, allows landowners to enter contracts with counties restricting land to agricultural use for ten-year minimum terms in exchange for reduced property tax assessment based on farming income.
Government Code 51200-51297.4 establishes the Williamson Act framework under which county boards of supervisors may form agricultural preserves and contract with landowners to restrict parcels to agricultural and compatible uses for renewable ten-year terms (twenty for Farmland Security Zones). In exchange, parcels are taxed based on agricultural income capacity rather than market value. The state partially reimburses counties for foregone property tax. Local governments must follow uniform statewide procedures for contract entry, renewal, nonrenewal, and cancellation. While participation by counties is optional, the contract framework, valuation method, and cancellation rules are state-mandated and uniform.
Premature contract cancellation triggers cancellation fees of 12.5 percent of the parcel's unrestricted fair market value under Government Code 51283.
Ojai, CA
Ojai enforces strict decibel limits to protect the peaceful valley environment. Residential noise standards are among the more restrictive in Ventura County.
Ojai, CA
Ojai's noise ordinance prohibits racing engines, unnecessary idling for more than 10 minutes, and intentional tire screeching. CA Vehicle Code §27007 (95 dBA...
Ojai, CA
Ojai regulates noise under OMC Chapter 7-6, incorporating Ventura County noise standards. Residential nighttime noise must not exceed 45 dBA at the property ...
Ojai, CA
Amplified music in Ojai is governed by the general noise ordinance (OMC Chapter 7-6). Outdoor amplified music requires a special event permit if audible beyo...
Ojai, CA
Nuisance barking violates Ojai's noise ordinance (OMC Title 5, Chapter 11). Police may charge property owners for law enforcement costs after the first respo...
Ojai, CA
CVC §22651 limits vehicles to 72 hours on public streets. Ojai enforces parking through the Ventura County Sheriff's Department. The small downtown area has ...
See how Ojai's agricultural zoning protection rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.