An Approach to Land-use Control: the California Land Conservation Act

Abstract

Recognition of the nature of problems caused by urban growth in California has led to new legislation to cope with some of the operational difficulties faced by farmers in the urban fringe. Within this environment the California Land Conservation Act (Williamson Act) is intended to have its greatest impact. The aim of the legislation is accomplished by a voluntary contract between the farmer and local government which restricts the land to agricultural use. In return land is taxed on its agricultural value rather than its urban potential. This article represents a contribution to the appraisal of a significant initiative in public policy making which currently involves land-use control over some 5.5 million hectares of agricultural and open space land.