Wasshington
Agritourism

The Washington State Agritourism Study was commissioned by the Washington State Legislature through the WA State Department of Commerce. It began in October of 2024 and the final report will come out in June of 2025.

This study is conducting an in-depth analysis of key factors that influence the growth and long-term viability of agritourism. This effort seeks to balance the preservation of farms’ primary agricultural purpose with the needs and interests of local communities. The study examines how existing zoning and permitting regulations in agricultural areas impact agritourism operations, while also addressing the effects of event venues and alcohol sales on nearby neighborhoods, including the size and frequency of events.

It also explores the use of agricultural buildings for agritourism, direct farm sales, and value-added products, while clarifying the distinctions between commercial and residential uses in rural areas. Furthermore, the research evaluates technologies that can support agritourism while emphasizing the importance of authenticity and sustainability in the industry.

This comprehensive approach is designed to provide actionable insights and guide the development of policies that foster a thriving agritourism sector while preserving the agricultural character and integrity of Washington State’s farmlands.

Exploring the roots of Washington agriculture to ensure future policies that work for everyone

Defining the future of agritourism in Washington State involves understanding how state and county policies around zoning, permitting, and incentives can best support the industry. It’s essential to assess the impact of agritourism on local communities and regions in order to develop effective policy.

 By gathering recommendations for state agritourism policies, we can ensure that future regulations address community needs and foster sustainable growth throughout Washington’s agricultural landscape.

About the Study & Report

For fiscal year 2025, the Washington State Legislature has commissioned a study to examine how other states regulate and permit agritourism. The goal is to bring stakeholders together to address key issues, including permitting in agricultural areas, the sale of alcohol related to agritourism activities, the use of agricultural buildings for agritourism purposes, and strategies for framing commercial uses in a way that protects the primary function of farms, particularly smaller farms in rural communities or those historically underrepresented or underserved.

Recognizing that such activities can have significant short- and long-term impacts on farmland, infrastructure, access, and local zoning ordinances, the state seeks to develop a balanced approach. This framework would allow farmers to integrate agritourism into their operations while preserving the rural character and agricultural integrity of farmlands across Washington.

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Helping Farmers & Rural Communities

We want to ensure that rural communities are able to thrive by helping define the factors that ensure the growth and long-term viability of Agritioursim in Washington State.