Massachusetts protects agricultural land use through MGL Chapter 40A Section 3, exempting agriculture, horticulture, and floriculture from most local zoning restrictions on parcels of five acres or more.
MGL Chapter 40A Section 3 limits municipal zoning authority over agricultural activities. The provision states no zoning ordinance or bylaw shall regulate or restrict agricultural use of land for primary purpose of commercial agriculture, aquaculture, silviculture, horticulture, floriculture, or viticulture on parcels of more than five acres, or two acres if generating gross sales exceeding $1,000 per acre. Cities may still apply reasonable zoning to farm structures and signs but cannot prohibit agricultural use itself. The Chapter 61A current-use tax program provides additional incentives for keeping land in active agricultural use.
Local zoning ordinances purporting to ban protected agriculture on qualifying parcels are unenforceable and may be voided in court with potential attorney fee awards.
Springfield, MA
Springfield prohibits storing abandoned, inoperable, or unregistered vehicles on public streets or visible on private property. Vehicles may be tagged and to...
Springfield, MA
Springfield regulates electric vehicle charging infrastructure for residential and commercial properties. Building codes may require EV-ready parking in new ...
Springfield, MA
Springfield regulates overnight parking on public streets. Many areas restrict parking between certain hours or require permits for overnight street parking.
Springfield, MA
Springfield requires pool barriers meeting safety codes to prevent drowning. Fences must be at least 4 to 5 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates.
Springfield, MA
Springfield requires permits for retaining walls above a certain height, typically 4 feet. Engineering review may be required for taller walls.
Springfield, MA
Springfield restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nui...
See how Springfield's agricultural zoning protection rules stack up against other locations.
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