FRANKFORT, Ky. — Sen. Robin Webb, R-Grayson, has filed Senate Bill 45 to strengthen and protect agritourism across the commonwealth by ensuring farmers and agribusiness operators are not subject to unreasonable or impractical local restrictions. SB 45 updates Kentucky’s agritourism statutes to clarify and modernize definitions while reinforcing protections for agritourism activities that comply with existing public health, safety, planning and zoning requirements. The bill recognizes agritourism as an important economic driver for rural communities and family farms. The legislation prohibits cities, counties or subdivisions from adopting or enforcing ordinances or regulations that place undue burdens on agritourism activities, making them unreasonable or impractical to operate. Any local regulation that conflicts with these protections would be deemed void and unenforceable. “Agritourism helps keep family farms viable while giving Kentuckians and visitors a chance to experience our agricultural heritage firsthand,” Webb said. “This bill provides clarity and consistency so farmers can continue to host events, educate the public, and grow their operations without unnecessary red tape while still respecting local public safety and zoning laws.” SB 45 also clarifies that agritourism activities may include a wide range of historic, cultural, educational, and recreational uses such as farm tours, harvest-your-own operations, weddings and ancillary events, livestock exhibitions, and activities involving working animals, regardless of whether participants pay to participate. The bill preserves existing law enforcement authority by explicitly excluding illegal activities, such as dog fighting or animal fighting, from the definition of agritourism. SB 45 focuses on supporting Kentucky agriculture, promoting rural economic development, and ensuring that agritourism operators have clear, fair rules under state law. Stay updated on legislative measures, including SB 45, at Legislature.ky.gov. ### Sen. Robin Webb, R-Grayson, represents the 18th Senate District, which includes Boyd, Carter, Greenup, and Lewis Counties. She served as co-chair of the Disaster Prevention and Resiliency Task Force in 2025. Webb is a member of the Senate Committees on Agriculture; Appropriations and Revenue; Natural Resources and Energy; and Families and Children. She also serves as a liaison member of the Budget Review Subcommittee on Justice and Judiciary. |
