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HD 3691

An Act relative to non-contiguous farm land

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jim Arciero and 2 co-sponsors

Allows Massachusetts farmers to claim agricultural tax exemptions for non-contiguous land parcels operated as unified farms, expanding exemption eligibility.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 3691

Legislative bill overview

HD 3691 permits farmers to qualify for agricultural tax exemptions and protections even when their farmland is geographically separated into non-contiguous parcels. Currently, Massachusetts agricultural programs may require contiguous land holdings, which can disadvantage farmers whose operations span multiple disconnected plots. This bill expands eligibility criteria to include fragmented property holdings.

Why is this important

Many working farms have evolved with non-contiguous parcels due to inheritance, gradual acquisitions, or local geography, yet they operate as unified agricultural operations. By removing the contiguity requirement, the bill could help preserve agricultural viability for these farmers, keep land in farming use, and prevent property tax burdens from forcing land sales in areas facing development pressure.

Potential points of contention

  • Defining "farm operations": Unclear standards for what constitutes a single agricultural operation versus separate enterprises, potentially opening exemptions to abuse or exploitation
  • Tax base concerns: Municipalities may worry about reduced property tax revenue if more fragmented holdings qualify for agricultural exemptions
  • Administrative complexity: Agencies must track and verify non-contiguous parcels, increasing oversight requirements and potential disputes over eligibility

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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