COUNTY COMPLIANCE DEMANDS AND THE FARMSTAND

Since so many customers ask about the County's stance on code compliance for our modest farmstand, we wanted to shed light on our ongoing efforts.

Over the past nine months ( yes, 9 months!), we've diligently engaged with Solano County's Resource Management Department to address their regulatory demands concerning the farmstand and its accompanying structure. While we respect the importance of laws and regulations, we advocate for a fair and equitable environment for all farmers, with permit fees that align with the financial capacities of small-scale agricultural enterprises.

Navigating these requirements necessitated hiring an attorney for legal support to navigate compliance expectations and personalities and facilitate constructive dialogue with Resource Management. Regrettably, the need for legal representation for small farmers in addressing code compliance issues is not unique to our farm or Solano County farmers. Also, it has not been uncommon in the last few years that farmers have left Solano County, specifically because working through compliance issues is so onerous. This is a discouraging outcome to have to face that our farmers are leaving our community.

However, we are committed to overcoming these challenges and paving the way for fellow farmers to navigate Resource Management's demands effectively. Recognizing farmers' vital role in Solano County, we firmly believe in fostering a cultural shift that acknowledges its agricultural heritage and actively supports and engages with small family farmers, providing them with the necessary resources and opportunities to thrive.

We will continue to provide updates as our journey unfolds. For those who wish to contribute, we encourage you to contact the county administrator to voice your support for initiatives such as farmstand operations, u-pick experiences, open farm days, local access to farm-fresh produce, and the preservation of open spaces. As farm allies, your vocal support for the farming community is a powerful expression that farmers in your community matter.

For information about the County Administrator's Office or to offer suggestions and comments regarding County operations, please contact the County Administrator
Bill Emlen 
County Administrator
cao-clerk@solanocounty.com

County Administrator's Office
Phone:(707) 784-6100 cao-clerk@solanocounty.com
675 Texas Street, Suite 6500
Fairfield CA 94533

The small but mighty FARMSTAND is open every Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 8-5.

If you want to help financially, we accept non-tax-deductable donations at our online store. All money is directed toward supporting the farmstand.