Agricultural uses encompass a broad range of activities, such as personal gardening, community gardening, commercial farming, indoor farming methods like hydroponics and aquaponics, rooftop greenhouses, and more. These practices not only promote the production of fresh and locally sourced food but also contribute to a healthier environment and community engagement.
The NYC Zoning Resolution categorizes agricultural uses into two main sections:
The Zoning Resolution allows community gardens to sell the produce they grow within the garden itself, offering an additional source of revenue and increasing accessibility to fresh, locally grown food. Community gardens located in most commercial districts (C1, C2, C4, C5, C6, and C8) or any manufacturing zoning districts are further permitted to operate retail stores. This enables them not only to sell their garden produce but also to offer other products produced off-site, supporting local businesses and encouraging economic growth within the neighborhood. (nyc.gov, 2023)
The sale of food on public sidewalks in NYC is regulated by the Street Activity Permit Office and is not directly influenced by zoning regulations. This ensures that all sidewalk vendors adhere to safety and health standards.
