WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SR 4

Resolution Encouraging the Integration of Agriculture into Residential Development

2026 General Session Introduced by Scott Sandall

Utah resolution encourages cities and counties to integrate agriculture into residential development through community gardens and urban farms, promoting sustainability with local discretion.

Senate/ to Lieutenant Governor
#agriculture #agriculture&food #counties #housing #landuse #municipalities #planningandzoning #politicalsubdivisions(localissues) #resolutions
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SR 4

Legislative bill overview

SR 4 is a non-binding resolution that encourages Utah cities and counties to incorporate agricultural elements—such as community gardens, urban farms, and green spaces—into residential development projects. The resolution promotes sustainable land use practices while allowing local governments discretion in implementation.

Why is this important

As Utah experiences rapid residential growth, particularly in the Wasatch Front region, this resolution addresses concerns about sprawl, food security, and quality of life. Integrating agriculture into residential areas can increase local food production, reduce development costs through dual-use land strategies, and improve community engagement—though these outcomes depend entirely on voluntary local adoption.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. state preference: While non-binding, the resolution expresses state preference for agricultural integration, which some municipalities may view as pressure despite lacking enforcement mechanisms
  • Practical implementation challenges: Concerns about water availability in arid Utah, liability issues with community gardens, and whether residential developers will voluntarily adopt practices that reduce buildable square footage
  • Economic viability questions: Unclear whether agricultural integration increases or decreases development costs and property values, potentially affecting affordability and developer participation rates

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

Sign in to ask a question.