Urban Agriculture Zoning Brief

What is the Zoning Brief?

The DEUFFC Policy Committee has been tasked with addressing the needs of urban farmers and gardeners as it relates to laws, zoning codes, and other policies focused on the City of Wilmington. The Urban Agriculture as of Right Zoning Brief is the result of several years of research by the DEUFFC’s Policy Committee. We reviewed Wilmington’s local plans and zoning ordinances, surveyed local urban farmers and community gardeners, and explored zoning codes that promote urban agriculture in cities across the country.  We also developed an inventory and map of local urban agriculture projects, including urban farms, school gardens and community gardens.  

We Need Your Help!

Many Wilmington residents are facing challenges related to food insecurity, crime and lack of access to green, open spaces.  These become more daunting when combined with the current and future effects of our changing climate.  Wilmington’s Zoning Code is only indirectly supportive of urban agriculture activities and does little to promote or protect these projects. 

The Supporting and Promoting Urban Agriculture in Wilmington is a tool for urban planners, city staff, urban farmers and advocates to use to address zoning barriers to urban agriculture in Wilmington.  

Step 1: Review

We’re asking our local urban farmers, community gardeners, and interested stakeholders to download and review our short brief, “Supporting and Promoting Urban Agriculture in Wilmington: Recommendations for Updating the Zoning Code.” While you read think about how the content relates to your experiences with urban agriculture in Wilmington.

Download the Brief by clicking here

Step 2: Feedback

 After reviewing the urban agriculture zoning brief, please provide feedback to help ensure our recommendations to the City of Wilmington reflect your perspective and needs as an urban farmer, community gardener, or interested stakeholder. The survey should take less than 10minutes to complete.

Complete Survey by clicking here