Tax Advantages
Bellavista Ranch is protected by a Williamson Act contract between Sonoma County and the owners. These contracts are automatically renewed every year and protect agriculture and open space on behalf of the public in exchange for favorable tax treatment and an agreement to maintain the property as a viable agricultural operation. Future owners are bound by the Williamson Act for a minimum of ten years, but the tax advantages are significant.
Possible Lot Split
The LIA20 zoning on this property would allow for four 20 acre parcels to be created, but they would have to meet the requirements of the Williamson Act in order to be allowed. The most significant requirement would be to have at least 10 acres in agricultural production on each parcel created. Sonoma County planning and legal departments would have to be consulted to see whether this option is both legal and practical.