The agriculture, recreation and open space (ARO) zone is hereby established. Properties so designated shall be subject to the provisions of this chapter.

The agriculture, recreation and open space (ARO) zone is intended to apply to properties so designated on the future land use map of the comprehensive plan and/or in any pre-annexation zoning ordinance. The ARO zone is intended to ensure that agricultural lands within the ARO designation are treated in such a way as to encourage the continuation of agricultural activities as defined herein, while also allowing certain accessory, recreational and open space uses that are also compatible with ongoing agricultural operations. The ARO zone is also intended to apply to areas with significant amounts of existing agricultural uses, open space, and/or critical areas, where the area has not been previously occupied for uses that require large amounts of impervious surfaces or buildings with the potential to be damaged by flooding (unless the buildings are needed by traditional agricultural uses), and where adequate transportation, water and/or sewer facilities that would be needed to support urban-level densities do not exist. It is also the intent of this zone to protect agricultural activities from zoning and nuisance complaints.

Properties within the ARO zone should be used for recreational, open space, or resource uses which do not require extensive fills, large areas of impervious surfaces, or place high demands on the transportation, water, or sewer systems.

For the purpose of this chapter, terms and words shall have the meanings set forth in Chapter 20.15 PMC and PMC § 20.50.010.

Uses permitted outright or conditionally permitted in the ARO zone shall be as set forth in Table 20.36.015.

All signs within the ARO zones shall conform with the sign requirements of the RS zone, except that signs for commercial uses permitted in Table 20.36.015 shall comply with the standards of the limited commercial (CL) zone. In addition, during any spray operations, farmers may post city-approved caution signs on city right-of-way that read "Caution – Spraying in Progress" or other warnings that may be required by other agencies, without obtaining a permit.

Notwithstanding any other provisions in this code, agricultural activities conducted consistent with this chapter shall not be found to constitute a nuisance unless the activity has a substantial adverse effect on the public health and safety. Agricultural activities undertaken in conformity with all applicable laws, rules and generally accepted agricultural and best management practices are presumed to be good agricultural practices not adversely affecting the public health and safety.

Any property offered for sale within the ARO zone shall include notice to potential purchasers that it is located within an area where agricultural activities may be conducted and that such activities are legal and permitted by this chapter. A note to this effect shall be placed on any short plat or major subdivision approved by the city; provided, however, that any failure to do so shall not negate the right to engage in agricultural activities on any property located within the ARO zone.