[HISTORY: Adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Saratoga as indicated
in article histories. Amendments noted where applicable.]
[Adopted 6-8-1992 by L.L. No. 1-1992]
A.Â
The Town Board of the Town of Saratoga finds that farming
is an essential activity within the Town of Saratoga.
B.Â
Farming, as defined herein, reinforces the special quality
of life enjoyed by citizens, provides the visual benefit of open space and
generates economic benefits and social well-being within the community. Therefore,
the Town of Saratoga emphasizes to newcomers that this Town encourages its
agriculture and requests newcomers to be understanding of the necessary day-to-day
operations.
C.Â
It is the general purpose and intent of this article
to maintain and preserve the rural tradition and character of the Town of
Saratoga, to permit the continuation of agricultural practices, to protect
the existence and operation of farms, and to encourage the initiation and
expansion of farms and agricultural businesses.
D.Â
For the purpose of reducing future conflicts between
farmers and non-farmers, it is necessary for notice to be given to future
neighbors about the nature of agricultural practices.
As used in this article, the following terms shall have the meanings
indicated:
Includes all activities on a farm necessary to the operation of a
farm.
Includes livestock, dairy, poultry, fur-bearing animal, aquaculture,
fruit, vegetable and field crop farms, plantations, orchards, nurseries, greenhouses,
or other similar operations used primarily for the raising of agricultural
or horticultural commodities.
Farmers, as well as those employed, retained, or otherwise authorized
to act on behalf of farmers, may engage in farming practices within the Town
of Saratoga at any and all such times and all such locations as are reasonably
necessary to conduct the business of farming, as long as such farming practices
do not violate any existing federal, state or local laws. For any activity
or operation, in determining the reasonableness of the time, place and methodology
of such operation, due weight and consideration shall be given to both traditional
customs and procedures in the farming industry as well as to advances resulting
from increased knowledge and improved technologies.
The following notice shall be included in building permits and on plats
of subdivisions submitted for approval pursuant to Town Law § 276.
"This property may border a farm, as defined in Town Law No. 1 of the
year 1992. Residents should be aware that farmers have the right to undertake
farm practices which may generate dust, odor, smoke, noise, and
vibration."
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