An agricultural zone is an area in a municipality's official plan or zoning bylaw designated primarily for farming activities. Zoning regulations in agricultural zones typically allow uses like crop cultivation, livestock raising, farm buildings, and farm-related businesses, while restricting residential subdivisions, commercial development, and industrial uses that could conflict with farming. Agricultural zoning helps preserve farmland, reduces land-use conflicts (like complaints about farm smells or equipment noise), and maintains the rural character of areas outside urban boundaries. When developers want to build on agriculturally-zoned land, they must apply to have the zoning changed—a process that usually involves public hearings and council approval.