7407 Bradshaw Rd, Salem, VA 24153

Agricultural/Rural Low Density District

The AG-1, agricultural/rural low density district consists of land primarily used as farmland, woodlands, and scattered residential development located within the rural service area. Also found in these areas are lands with steep slopes, and groundwater recharge areas. Many of the county's unique natural and scenic resources are also found in this district. The purpose of this district is to encourage these areas to remain in their rural state, and protect sensitive and unique land resources from degradation, consistent with the recommendations of the comprehensive plan for the rural preserve areas. This may be accomplished by maintaining the existing agricultural lands and preventing the encroachment of incompatible land uses, while allowing development to occur at a reasonable density. Non-farm residents should recognize that they are located in an agricultural environment where the right-to-farm has been established as county policy. This district is also intended to minimize the demand for unanticipated public improvements and services, such as public sewer and water, by reducing development densities and discouraging large scale development.