In order to minimize conflict between farm and non-farm (urban) uses, a sympathetic interface must be provided and maintained.  This can be achieved through careful subdivision planning and appropriate landscaping and buffering.

As of May 22, 2007, the City of Surrey will require landscaped buffers for residential developments adjacent to the ALR/Agricultural designation to be planted prior to the issuance of building permits.  To view the City's landscape buffer procedures, please click here.

The links below provide useful guides for creating sympathetic interfaces between farm and non-farm uses.

Planning Subdivisions Near Agriculture
(BC Ministry of Agriculture and Lands, Provincial Agricultural Land Commission)

Landscaped Buffer Specifications
(Provincial Agricultural Land Commission)

Below are some examples of how the urban-agriculture interface has been addressed in Surrey.

Looking north from 156B St, toward 40 Ave and the ALR: Lower density, suburban lots are generally located close to agricultural land.

40 Ave, west of 160 St: Landscaped buffers and roads can form an effective buffer between farm and non-farm uses.

Near 36A Ave and 164A St: An example of large suburban lots separated from adjacent agricultural land by fencing and a landscaped buffer.