List of Zones?

[hermit]

I'm seeking to buy an acreage and create a hobby orchard, but I need to understand what zones are allowed to do this.    Does anyone have a list of the zone designations and what their restrictions are?

thank you

hermit

[Pfm1011]

What area are you looking and what size of farm did you have in mind?

Generally hobby farms are allowed anywhere and essentially any zoning that would apply to acreage , IE open space, recreational, agricultural etc .  You have to check each town as they all have their own zoning but  crop farming is generally allowed anywhere. Livestock will be more controlled due to water tables and air quality.

You should note that if you plan on a hobby farm you have to generate 7k annually to get the farm property tax break.

The catch is to make sure you can build a house and a barn on the piece so frontage and acreage has to be checked. 

Also you have to watch for tree protection bylaws and conservation as it may be "frowned upon" to clear cut old growth forest to plant a tomato crop (not to mention not worth the work) Also watch for provincially significant wetlands as you really don't want to accidentally wipe out a species or two while trying to spray for weeds. " Nice tomato's..but why are the fish floating???"

If you are looking at farming a piece, you may also want to refer to the Canada soil reports to see what can grow on a piece BEFORE YOU BUY
http://sis.agr.gc.ca/cansis/publications/on/index.html  Very accurate mapping and charts . Shows you what will grow, and if drainage will help. These are accurate within one or two acres.

Very important as a mile can make a huge difference in soil type. IE All the property that has been offered in Niagara recently is only good for hay and soybean due to soil but if you went 10 miles north you have amazing soil for grapes and fruit.

You wont find any good farm land going tax sale or power of sale as despite the whining of the farmers they aren't losing land anywhere due to record crop prices ....oops we aren't supposed to mention that ....(that should get me another -1 on the karma)

[KathleenH]

Thanks for the site with the maps, it did help me as well.