Ohio law limits township and county zoning authority over agricultural uses, preserving farming activities on land used primarily for agriculture.
Under ORC 519.21 for townships and ORC 303.21 for counties, zoning authorities cannot prohibit the use of land for agricultural purposes, including the construction of buildings used for agriculture, on lots greater than five acres or in unplatted areas. The exemption protects farms from local zoning that would restrict crop production, animal husbandry, and similar uses. Some restrictions still apply to platted subdivisions and lots smaller than five acres. Agritourism activities receive additional protection under ORC 901.80 with limited civil immunity.
Local zoning enforcement against protected agricultural uses can be enjoined and may result in attorney-fee awards.
Toledo, OH
Toledo has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments on residential property. TMC Chapter 1726 (Housing Code) requires general yard upkeep but does not ad...
Toledo, OH
Toledo has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Size and blower noise are governed by HOA and condo covenants under ORC 5311...
Toledo, OH
Toledo has no municipal ordinance regulating residential holiday lights. Display timing, brightness, and animation are governed by HOA and condo covenants un...
Toledo, OH
Toledo requires Division of Building Inspection permits for outdoor kitchens with gas lines, electrical wiring, plumbing, or structural roofs under TMC Chapt...
Toledo, OH
Toledo has no specific smoker ordinance, but Toledo-Lucas County Health Department (under Ohio EPA delegation) regulates visible emissions. TMC Chapter 1503 ...
Toledo, OH
Toledo Fire Code under TMC Chapter 1503 adopts the Ohio Fire Code under Ohio Administrative Code Chapter 1301:7-7, which incorporates the International Fire ...
See how Toledo's agricultural zoning protection rules stack up against other locations.
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