1166 Blue Shell Loop, Sarasota, FL 34240

Open Use Agricultural District

The OUA District is commonly intended to retain the open character of the very large land areas that encompass these properties. This district is further intended for agricultural purposes and uses and to preserve, for agricultural uses, those lands with agricultural development potential. Non-agriculturally-oriented residential development is discouraged, and all commercial and industrial development is prohibited, except for certain activities clearly appropriate and accessory to food and fiber production. Permitted uses shall be limited to conservation, agriculture, recreation, and with certain limitations, other uses that are not contrary to the open character of the district; These lands should not be rezoned to more intensive uses without a clear showing of proven need in the public interest and conformity with the Comprehensive Plan. This district is generally used to implement those areas designated as Rural on the Future Land Use Map of the Comprehensive Plan. Lands within the Urban Service Area Boundary that have existing OUA zoning are acknowledged, and are considered to be consistent with the Future Land Use Map. However, OUA-zoned lands within the Urban Service Area Boundary may be rezoned to a more intensive zoning district consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.