Agriculture continues to evolve as farmers look for new ways to connect with consumers and strengthen the economic sustainability of their operations. Agritourism provides an opportunity to diversify farm income while connecting visitors with agriculture. It also helps consumers better understand the work, traditions and value of farming.
Whether you are an experienced farmer looking to expand your operation or are considering agritourism for the first time, this webpage provides resources to help you get started. Explore tools, information and ideas to help you develop an agritourism experience that fits your farm and serves your community.
North Carolina Agritourism Limited Liability Law
North Carolina law provides certain liability protections for agritourism operators who invite visitors onto their farms. These protections apply to injuries or damages that result from the inherent risks associated with agritourism activities. The law supports the growth of agritourism as part of North Carolina’s agricultural economy while helping farmers manage the risks of opening their operations to the public.
Agritourism operators must meet specific requirements to receive these protections. This includes posting required warning signs in appropriate locations on the property. Farmers should review the law carefully and make sure their operations meet all applicable requirements before offering agritourism activities. Activities may include farm tours, u-pick operations and educational experiences.
Find a copy of this online: North Carolina Agritourism Limited Liability Law
Purchase a sign with the law's required wording from the N.C. Agritourism Association
Resources
NC State Tourism Extension's Resource Hub for Agritourism
NC State Extension publication: 'Agritourism for Small Farms in North Carolina'