Woodford County enacts new zoning rules for farm parcel conveyance

During the recent Woodford County Fiscal Court meeting, significant updates were made to the county's planning and zoning regulations, particularly concerning family conveyance of farmland. These changes aim to ensure that agricultural land remains within families while maintaining its integrity and use for farming.

One of the key decisions made was the requirement for an affidavit to be signed, confirming that farming is actively taking place on all parcels involved in family conveyance. This measure is designed to uphold the agricultural purpose of the land and prevent its misuse.

Additionally, the court established that the primary farm parcel must not be reduced below 30 acres. For parcels between 32 to 49 acres, only one family conveyance is allowed, while parcels of 50 acres or more can have two conveyances. The conveyed parcels must be at least 2 acres and must have legal frontage on a platted right of way, ensuring accessibility and compliance with zoning laws.

A notable restriction is that both the primary and conveyed parcels must be held and resided upon for at least 10 years after the deed is recorded. Exceptions to this rule include transfers between the original parties involved in the family conveyance or forced sales due to judicial actions, such as death or foreclosure. Furthermore, the conveyance can only occur from parent to child, whether natural or legally adopted, or from grandparent to grandchild.

These regulations will be recorded on the plat and included in the deed, ensuring transparency and adherence to the new guidelines. The 10-year holding requirement will begin upon the recordation of the deed, reinforcing the county's commitment to preserving its agricultural heritage.

These updates reflect the county's ongoing efforts to balance land use with family needs, ensuring that farming remains a viable and sustainable practice for future generations.