4511 Route 212, DURHAM, PA 18039

Agricultural Preservation District

To recognize and protect significant agricultural areas consistent with the latest version of the Bucks County Natural Resources Plan and the areas where farming predominates. This district recognizes that farming is Durham Township’s main commodity and all farmland must be considered to be developed land that is being used to produce a product. It is not a holding zone, but is an area having a positive purpose in utilizing the prime agricultural soils for the benefit of the entire community. This district protects agricultural areas from interference by incompatible uses. Agricultural activities within this district may generate noise, odors, and other disturbances that are considered part of normal farming operations. Residents of the AP district are advised that there may be noise, odors, dust, fumes or other disturbances associated with agricultural practices which are considered to be acceptable effects of farming and shall not be regulated by township nuisance laws. Residential development is to be placed on large lots or clusters where they can be setback from farms. This district is also intended to protect key areas that greatly affect the water quality of the water supply of many township residents and businesses and to carry out the Cooks Creek Watershed Conservation Plan. The density requirements and minimum lot size in the AP District are also intended to provide sufficient area for onlot water and on-lot sewer facilities and to provide a sufficient buffer area on the individual lots from farming operation disturbances. Limited use of community sewer and community water facilities is permitted on smaller lots where such lot sizes and facilities would enhance the preservation of Productive Agricultural Soils.