The Vermont Land Use Review Board (LURB) is hosting a series of meetings to get input on
whether and how Act 250 jurisdiction over commercial activities on farms should be revised,
including accessory on-farm businesses. On June 16, 2026, Governor Scott signed Act 152
into law, which requires that the LURB conduct a study and provide recommendations to the
Legislature by November 15, 2026. Act 152 requires that the LURB engage relevant
stakeholders as part of the development of this report. The LURB has invited a diverse group
of more than 50 entities and individuals, including farmers and “trade” organizations, to
participate as stakeholders. The Board welcomes all those interested in participating. These
meetings are also open to the public.
The first two stakeholder meetings were held on August 26 and September 17. Meeting
summaries are available on the website noted below. Additional stakeholder meetings will
be held on: September 30 (1:00-3:30pm), October 7 (6:30-8:30pm), October 15 (1:00-
3:30pm). Meetings are via remote connection only (Microsoft Teams or call in by phone).
More information, including remote connection details, available online at
https://act250.vermont.gov/modernizing-land-use-review/accessory-on-farm-business
Farming below 2500 feet in elevation is generally exempt from Act 250 permitting. Over many
years, the Legislature has discussed and extended exemptions to some commercial activities
on farms that don’t meet the definition of farming. These activities can help increase revenue,
improve farm viability, promote agritourism, and spur economic development.

• Act 143 of 2018. Created a new statewide land use category called Accessory
  On-Farm Business (AOFB). Act 143 expanded opportunities through on-farm sales
  of agricultural products or by hosting educational, recreational, or social events that
  feature agricultural practices or products. No Act 250 exemptions included.
• Act 181 of 2024. Expanded AOFBs’ ability to sell qualifying products that are not
  produced on the farm where an AOFB is located and added new types of eligible
  products. Some Act 250 exemptions included.
• Act 152 of 2026. Created new Act 250 exemptions for AOFBs. Exemptions for
  certain events become effective July 1, 2027, subject to limits on noise and hours.