While you are brainstorming possible agritourism enterprises, keep in mind that operating an agritourism business is just that: A business, and as such, is regulated by Federal, state, and county agencies and entities. Zoning is a good place to start: You don't want to spend your energy and capital developing an agritourism business that may not be allowed on your land! The people of Oregon have developed laws to ensure that agricultural lands will remain in farm use. However, there are some non-farm activities besides farm use that may be allowed in farm zones. The state land use laws provide the parameters for farm land with each county given the authority to more fully define and clarify ag lands and their use at the local level, consistent with state law. Read more about Oregon Zoning and what is and isn't allowed on agricultural land....
Most businesses will need to be registered and/or licensed at some level with appropriate Federal, state and county entities. As you evaluate your agritourism enterprise plan, you may want to consider options such as changing the status of your existing farm or ranch business entity from a sole proprietorship to a limited partnership or corporation to address liability/insurance issues. Also, you may wish to register your agritourism business as a separate entity from any existing agricultural business you may already have on the same property. (For instance, there may be business reasons for registering "The Jones Family Farm Stand" as a separate entity from the existing "Jones Farm", even though they may both be sole propritorships or partnerships). When forming these legal entities, you will need to correspond with the office of the Secretary of State, Corporation Division and register your operation as the appropriate entity. Read more about business registration, licensing, employer identification numbers, and other permits that may be required for your Oregon agritourism business...
Liability should be one of your major considerations when you enter into an agritourism enterprise. In general, if you decide to impose a fee or charge for any recreational activity conducted or for services or goods purchased or consumed on your land or land you are in possession and control of, rented or leased, you are exposed to greater liabilities for any injury of visitors that may occur. Meet with your attorney and insurance agent to determine the extent of liability and insurance needed and to develop a risk management plan. The landowner or user in possession and control of the land is obligated to make reasonable use of the property, which causes no unreasonable harm to others in the vicinity. Remember, liability equally applies on land you may be renting or leasing : Ownership is not the key factor! Read more and find contacts for liability issues in Oregon agritourism....
