Bill > HB2129

This bill aims to fortify and support agritourism activities in Washington state by establishing clear legal protections and guidelines for agricultural businesses that want to offer tourism-related experiences. The bill defines "agritourism activity" broadly to include a wide range of recreational, educational, and entertainment activities on farms and ranches, such as guided tours, farm festivals, petting zoos, harvest-your-own operations, hayrides, camping, and other activities that allow the public to experience rural life. The legislation explicitly authorizes these activities on agricultural lands without requiring additional permits or conditional use approvals from counties, and prevents local governments from creating regulations that would prohibit or unreasonably restrict such activities. The bill also amends several existing laws to ensure that agritourism is recognized as a valuable economic strategy that helps protect and sustain agricultural businesses, and directs the Department of Commerce to modify any existing rules that might conflict with the new agritourism provisions. By providing these protections, the bill seeks to create more economic opportunities for farmers and ranchers while maintaining the agricultural character of rural areas.

Government Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2129&Year=2025&Initiative=false