For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
AGRICULTURE. For the purpose of this PDR Program, includes real estate devoted to agricultural and horticultural use. The following is a list of qualifying activities: production for sale of plants and animals useful to man, or devoted to and meeting the requirements and qualifications for payments or other compensation pursuant to a soil conservation program under an agreement with an agency of the federal government; production for sale of fruits, nuts, berries, vegetables, nursery and floral products. Land producing sod, feed grains or hay also qualifies as agricultural.
A/RB AGRICULTURAL ZONE. Permits density of housing units as currently defined in the county's zoning chapter.
CONSERVATION DISTRICT. A land use category which includes barrier islands, tidal marshes, and designated upland conservation areas such as the ES National Wildlife Refuge, state park, and state natural areas.
CONSERVATION EASEMENT. A voluntary legal arrangement between the owner of a property and a non-profit organization or government agency endorsed by the County Board of Supervisors, in which the owner agrees to restrict future uses of the land in perpetuity. The easement document specifies the rights of holder to monitor and enforce the agreement and records the restrictions on land use. Subsequent owners must comply with the provisions of the easement.
DELMARVA CONSERVATION CORRIDOR PLAN. A multi-state demonstration program adopted in June 2003 with a goal of preserving farmland and habitat.
DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS. An interest in real property established under a Purchase of Development Rights Program which is made severable from the parcel and which may be sold or donated as provided for in a PDR Program.
PURCHASE OF DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS (PDR) PROGRAM. A comprehensive program providing for the establishment and purchase of development rights. The program established by this chapter includes most of the components suggested in the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Model PDR Program 2003 guidance.
VALUE OF DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS. Difference between the value of the property at its highest and best use under current zoning and its value if it continues in its current use, as determined by a professional appraiser with training in valuing conservation easements.
VIOLATIONS. Defined in Northampton County Code or other state or federal regulations applicable to activities on agricultural or forest land.
(Ord. passed 7-11-2005; Am. Ord. passed 6-11- 2007; Am. Ord. passed 11-14-2007; Am. Ord. passed 5-14-2013)