Zoning isn’t the only way to use the law to tie up land use. Private parties do it too! Here is a story of a farmer placing a conservation easement on his land so that it must remain under the till and plow.
Agricultural or Farmland Preservation Easement — A specialized form of conservation easement focused on protecting productive farmland. It limits non-agricultural development (e.g., no residential subdivisions or commercial buildings) while allowing continued farming, ranching, or related activities. Can be donated or purchased (e.g., via programs like USDA’s Agricultural Conservation Easement Program).
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