Iowa Code 335.2 exempts most farm structures and uses from county zoning regulations, preserving broad rights to operate agricultural land.
Iowa Code section 335.2 prohibits counties from using zoning powers to regulate land, buildings, or structures used for agricultural purposes outside cities, including most farm operations and dwellings. Confined animal feeding operations are governed under Iowa Code chapter 459 and matrix scoring administered by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, not local zoning. Cities retain zoning authority within their boundaries. The limits reinforce Iowa's policy of protecting agricultural enterprises from inconsistent local regulation.
County zoning rules conflicting with the agricultural exemption are void; courts will enjoin enforcement.
See how West Des Moines'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 If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.