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Questions and Answers Relating to the Williamson Act Page I of 4 .wf Questions and Answers Relating To the California Land Conservation (Williamson) Act Online Brochure Index These questions and answers are offered to provide information about the California Land Conservation (Williamson)Act of 1965, as amended,and certain Revenue and Taxation Code provisions which relate to the valuation of agricultural and open space land enrolled in Williamson Act contracts. 1.What is the California Land Conservation(Williamson)Act? The Williamson Act was passed by the California Legislature in 1965 to preserve agricultural and open space lands by discouraging the premature and unnecessary conversion to urban uses. In addition,the Act provides protection for wildlife habitats, marsh lands,salt flats,and scenic highway corridors. The Act authorizes local governments and property owners to(voluntarily)enter into contracts to commit land to specified uses for ten or more years. Once enforceably restricted,the land is valued as open space land pursuant to open space valuation laws (Revenue&Taxation Code Section 421,et seq.)enacted pursuant to the Open Space Amendment to the California Constitution. 2.What is an Agricultural Preserve? An Agricultural Preserve is established in order to define the boundary of an area within which the city or county will enter into contracts with landowners. The boundary of the Preserve will be designated by resolution of the Board or Council presiding over the local jurisdiction. Preserves will be regulated by rules and restrictions designated in the resolution so that the land within the Preserve is maintained for agricultural or open space use,or designated compatible uses. 3.How many acres are required for an Agricultural Preserve? The Government Code provides that as Agricultural Preserve shall consist of no less than 100 acres. However,in order to meet this requirement two or more parcels may be combined if they are contiguous,or if they are in common owner-ship. The Code provides further that smaller agricultural preserves may be established if the Board or Council determines that the unique characteristics of the agricultural units,and if the establishment of the preserve is consistent with the General Plan. Preserves may be made up of land in one or more ownerships. Property owners with less than 100 acres may combine with neighbors to form preserves,provided the properties are contiguous. 4.What is a Land Conservation Contract? A Land Conservation Contract is the legal document which contractually obligates the property owner,and his or her succes-sors of interest,to the enforceable restrictions provided in the Act. Only land which is located within an Agricultural Preserve is eligible for a contract. 5.Who is eligible to participate in the program? Property owners may file a request to form an Agricultural Preserve. The request will be considered in light of ' established criteria and the General Plan. If the Preserve is established after a public hearing on the application,the property owner(s)will be offered a Land Conservation Contract. http://www.co.humboldt.ca.us/planning/brochure/william.htm 5/12/2004