501 Sharp Rd, Madison, NC 27025

Residential Agricultural District

The Residential Agriculture (RA) district is established in areas that are characterized by large lots, clustered subdivisions, agricultural uses and open lands. These areas may include prime farmland and unique topographical or environmental restrictions that are remote from existing developed areas. These areas represented non-target growth areas where limited public water and no public sewer utilities are available. This district promotes rural development patterns that are characterized by the following: Low densities, including large lots or clustered lots that are surrounded by contiguous swaths of natural areas or agricultural land.; Setbacks and lot characteristics that are consistent with the existing, natural terrain.; Narrow, winding streets that follow the natural topography.; Natural or agricultural areas with preponderance of agricultural activities and forested lands.; The RA district carries forth the principles associated with the preservation and conservation of rural lands throughout the county where low density is desirable in order to protect environmentally sensitive areas, agricultural areas, and viewsheds.; Major subdivisions with 100 or more lots are not permitted in RA.