The Calvert County Department of Planning & Zoning announces the opening of the public adoption process for updates to the rules and regulations governing the Calvert County Agricultural Land Preservation Program.
Created in 1978, the program was the first local land preservation program implemented in Maryland and remains one of the most successful transferable development rights (TDR) programs in the state. The program’s goal is to deter development of farms and forested land and direct growth to areas targeted for residential and commercial development. The rules and regulations have not had a comprehensive update since the program’s inception. An update is needed as the county prepares to reopen the program to applications for the creation of new Agricultural Preservation Districts.
The public adoption process will begin with a presentation to the Calvert County Planning Commission to present proposed changes. The updates will be presented at the regular Planning Commission meeting Wednesday, Aug. 20, at 7 p.m. at the Harriet E. Brown Community Center, located at 901 Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick. Doors open at 6 p.m. Agricultural Preservation District owners and interested members of Calvert County’s agricultural community are encouraged to attend. The public comment period opens Aug. 21 and can be submitted to Jennifer David at jennifer.david@calvertcountymd.gov or by mail at Attn: Jennifer David, rural planner, 205 Main St., Prince Frederick, MD 20678.
Planning & Zoning staff will present proposed changes, answer questions and receive feedback from the commission. The public is encouraged to attend in person, virtually by viewing the live stream on the county's website, or by calling the phone numbers listed below and entering the meeting ID to listen. Agendas, minutes and video can be viewed at www.CalvertCountymd.gov/1501/Meetings-On-Demand.
To participate by phone (audio only):
- Toll-free: 301-715-8592
- Meeting ID: 858 5579 4151
- Passcode: (if asked) #
- To provide comment: *9
Additional information and an anticipated schedule for the adoption of the updated rules and regulations are available at www.calvertcountymd.gov/AgPreservationUpdate. Residents are encouraged to participate in the adoption process for the updated rules and regulations through public comment or by observing upcoming work sessions and meetings.
For questions or further information, contact Jennifer David, rural planner, at 410-535-1600, ext., 2238, or email jennifer.david@CalvertCountyMd.gov or Summer Roen, historic/ rural planner at 410-535-1600, ext. 2742, or email summer.roen@CalvertCountyMd.gov.
Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay connected with Calvert County Government through the mobile app, newsletters, social media and more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/StayInformed.
