COUNTY ORDINANCES MAY VIOLATE STATE STATUTE

Several growers in the Desoto County area contacted Florida Farm Bureau after being issued citations for violating a county ordinance restricting the use of fireworks and propane cannons. The ordinance stated that the cannons were restricted to use only once a day either within 30 minutes of 6:30 a.m. or 6:30 p.m.

Florida Farm Bureau contacted local county officials and presented evidence that this ordinance violated the Right to Farm Act and the Florida Agricultural Lands and Practices Statute. Florida Farm Bureau was able to resolve the citations for the farmers in the area and the county commission is working on a new ordinance that exempts agricultural landowners from restricted use. If you have a question about a local ordinance, contact the Florida Farm Bureau government affairs division at 352.374.1592.