It’s great to see changes taking place supporting local food production and marketing opportunities for producers within the city limits of urban populations. Wheat Ridge City Council approved changes to the City Code that support and encourage urban agricultural uses and activities in the City. The code changes updated the City’s regulations and established three main uses for urban agriculture: community gardens, farmers’ markets, and produce stands which are now allowed in any zone district. A summary of the three uses permitted in each zone district may be found on the City Website at this link.
“We’ve seen increased interest in urban agriculture by our residents,” said Mayor Jerry DiTullio. “Wheat Ridge was founded on an agricultural past and it is exciting to see the renewed interest by so many of our residents in a favorite pastime coupled with their desire to access locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables. I’m pleased that the amended ordinance creates a Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) for a resident or business to grow and sell fresh fruits and vegetables with no review fees or oversight by the City.”
“LiveWell Wheat Ridge congratulates the City of Wheat Ridge on making these important changes to the zoning code,” states Molly Hansen, LiveWell Wheat Ridge Coordinator. “Increasing access to locally grown food is a vital step in promoting healthy food options, creating resilient neighborhoods and supporting our local economy. It is exciting to see support from the community and City Council on creating a policy framework that supports these important principles.”
Guidestone salutes efforts to promote urban agriculture in communities. Wheat Ridge is now among the leading municipalities in the State and nation connecting urban dwellers to fresh, healthy food. Cities across the country that have been recognized for adopting zoning codes that support urban agricultural activities are Seattle, Cleveland, Milwaukee, and Kansas City.
It is clear that urban agriculture promotes economic and community development, environmental sustainability, and connects people to fresh, healthy food.
Judie Anders, Guidestone