Ministry of Rural Affairs

Norfolk County recognizes the importance of protecting prime agricultural lands, but not all lands currently zoned as “prime” are actively farmed. Many large parcels are under-utilized or unfarmed, representing missed opportunities for rural housing, farm succession, and economic diversification. 

Where we’re at

Current provincial policies on farm severances, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and rural economic development create challenges for families, retiring farmers, and small-scale rural businesses. Without flexibility, these policies can limit housing options, generational farm transitions, and the ability for rural communities to thrive. 

Key areas of concern include: 

• Farm Severances: Restrictions on severances can hinder farm succession and limit housing availability for families on large properties.

• Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Limited permissions and servicing constraints restrict the development of workforce or multi-generational housing in rural areas. 

Our ask

Norfolk County is requesting provincial collaboration and policy updates to: 

• Enhance Farm Severance Flexibility
  Allow severances for family members, retiring farmers, or to facilitate generational transitions while still protecting productive agricultural lands.

• Expand ADU Opportunities
  Support the development of accessory dwelling units in rural areas to address workforce housing shortages, enable multi-generational living, and support aging-in-place strategies. 

These changes would balance farmland protection with the need for housing, generational succession, and economic resilience in rural communities.