Agricultural classification is a real estate tax savings benefit for property owners that use their land primarily for bona fide commercial agricultural uses. "Bona fide use" means good faith, commercial agricultural use of the land with the intent of earning a profit from the production and sale of a farm product. Animals kept for petting zoos, sanctuaries, personal uses, hobbies, or education do not qualify. 

This benefit results in the land being valued based on the probable income from normal agricultural use. This is often substantially less than market value. The agricultural use must be in place on or before January 1st of the year which the ag classification is requested. Only the land acreage that is being used for agriculture can receive this classification. This benefit does not apply to buildings. (Florida Statute 193.461)

Questions and Answers

Have you ever wondered if your property qualifies for agricultural classification? Or, if you already have ag classification and want to introduce agritourism activities to your property, how may your agricultural classification be affected?
Will Agricultural Classification affect my Homestead Exemption?
I'm thinking about applying for agricultural classification. Can you tell me how much I will save so I can decide if it's worth it?
Can you “pre-approve” my proposed commercial agricultural use?
How do I apply for agricultural classification?
What if my application is approved?
What if my application is denied?
What happens to the agricultural classification when the property is sold or ownership is changed?
What happens when I stop using my land for commercial agriculture?
Can I lose my agricultural classification if I conduct agritourism activities in the buildings on my property?

Agricultural Use Guidelines

GENERAL INFORMATION
ORCHARD/GROVE
BEES
NURSERIES
CATTLE
GOATS/SHEEP
HORSE BOARDING/BREEDING
AQUACULTURE
HAY
CHICKENS
SWINE

Common Misconceptions About Agricultural Classification and Code Enforcement

I have agricultural classification on my property and I want to build an outbuilding. Do I need to pull a permit?
I built a barn on my property and my taxes increased. Why?
I really need to start building on my property right away. Can you go ahead and approve my application for agricultural classification?
I need to get my property use code changed to “ag exempt” so I can keep my chickens (or other personal farm pets)

 

While specific, these are only guidelines. The granting of all or part of an application for agricultural classification is made only after all relevant information on the parcel has been analyzed by the Property Appraiser.

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