ZOAM Update: Breweries and Wineries
Recent discussions on the county's western Loudoun zoning review have generated considerable interest within the community, particularly regarding regulations affecting breweries, wineries, and agricultural operations. The Loudoun Farm Bureau wishes to provide clarity on our position and involvement in this ongoing process.
This zoning review represents a continuation of efforts that commenced in early 2024 and has received consistent coverage in local media outlets. Throughout this process, Loudoun Farm Bureau producer board members, including representatives from the craft beverage sector, have maintained active participation in the process.
Preserving the Integrity of Agricultural Zoning
The Farm Bureau believes that county zoning regulations must clearly define what constitutes a bona fide agricultural operation. Any entity claiming agricultural status should demonstrate a primary commitment to producing agricultural products; in essence, it should function as an authentic farm operation.
Agricultural zoning classifications should not serve as mechanisms to circumvent standard commercial development requirements. Operations that utilize agricultural designations primarily to construct event venues, conduct large-scale land clearing and grading in environmentally sensitive areas for aesthetic purposes, or avoid commercial building code compliance do not represent legitimate agricultural enterprises. While such ventures may offer valuable tourism opportunities, they should undergo the appropriate commercial zoning processes rather than operate under agricultural exemptions.
Agritourism, by definition, must maintain its agricultural foundation. Without the agricultural component, an operation may still provide worthwhile tourism experiences, but it should be properly classified and regulated as a commercial tourism venture.
The misuse of agricultural classifications poses a significant risk to legitimate farming operations. If agricultural exemptions are perceived as exploitable loopholes rather than necessary provisions for working farms, there is substantial danger that regulatory bodies may restrict or eliminate essential allowances. These allowances—which permit activities such as field cultivation, construction of hay storage facilities, and livestock housing—are fundamental to viable agricultural operations.
The Loudoun Farm Bureau's member-approved policies position us as dedicated advocates for all segments of our county's agricultural community. This includes grape growers and wineries, grain producers, livestock operations, vegetable farms, cut flower enterprises, and every individual engaged in legitimate agricultural production within Loudoun County.
Equally important to our advocacy for farmers is our commitment to protecting the reputation and integrity of those engaged in the demanding work of agriculture. We cannot allow operations that violate county regulations and pursue non-agricultural activities under the guise of farming to undermine the credibility and standing of our genuine agricultural community.
The Farm Bureau remains committed to ensuring that zoning policies serve the interests of authentic agricultural operations while maintaining the integrity of our county's agricultural sector.