We, the undersigned, respectfully petition the East Baton Rouge Parish Planning Commission to amend the Unified Development Code (UDC) to align with Louisiana state law regarding farmers’ rights to conduct agritourism activities.

Currently, the Parish’s code does not explicitly recognize the provisions established by the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) and the Louisiana State University Agriculture Center (LSU AgCenter) concerning certified agritourism farms. As a result, local farmers who are properly registered and certified through the LSU AgCenter face unnecessary barriers and restrictions when attempting to host agritourism events on their property.

We request that the Planning Commission amend the UDC to recognize and uphold the rights of certified agritourism farms as defined under Louisiana state law—granting these farms the ability to conduct educational, recreational, and entertainment-based agritourism activities without undue limitation.

If the Unified Development Code remains unchanged, East Baton Rouge Parish farmers risk losing an essential means of economic sustainability and community connection.  Without recognition of existing state agritourism protections, farmers may be discouraged or even prohibited from engaging in lawful, beneficial agritourism practices—undermining both agricultural progress and public access to educational farm experiences. 

Updating the UDC to reflect Louisiana’s agritourism statutes will not only bring local policy into compliance with state law but will also empower farmers to thrive while promoting agricultural literacy. Expanding access to agritourism opportunities brings wholesome, family-friendly experiences to East Baton Rouge Parish—creating safe, educational, and enjoyable spaces for families to gather, explore, and celebrate Louisiana’s agricultural heritage together.