[HISTORY: Adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Clifton Park 10-21-1996
by L.L. No. 9-1996. Amendments noted where applicable.]
A.
The Town Board of Clifton Park finds that farming is
an essential activity within Clifton Park.
B.
Farm, 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 Clifton Park emphasizes to newcomers that this town encourages
its agriculture and requests newcomers to be understanding of the necessary
day-to-day operations.
C.
It is the general purpose and intent of this chapter
to maintain and preserve the rural tradition and character of Clifton Park,
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.
For the purpose of reducing future conflicts between
farmers and nonfarmers, it is necessary for notice to be given to future neighbors
about the nature of agricultural practices.
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings
indicated:
Includes all activities conducted on a farm necessary to the operation
of a farm.
Includes livestock, dairy, poultry, 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 lawfully engage in farming practices within
the Town of Clifton Park at any and all such times and all such locations
as are reasonably necessary to conduct the business of farming. 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. Residents should
be aware that farmers have the right to undertake farm practices which may
generate dust, odor, smoke noise and vibration."
