What are roadside stands?

A roadside stand is a structure that holds and displays agricultural products for sale outdoors. Food growers utilize roadside stands to sell their agricultural products from their private property directly to consumers.

Where are roadside stands permitted?

Roadside stands are permitted in the following zones:
A-Zones, RS-Zones, RD-Zones, RC-Zones, RT-Zones, RM-Zones, RA-Zones, P-1, P1-A, P1-R, P1-U, P-3, P-4, P-4HR, P-4H, P-4RV, P-6, P-11, P-12, P-13, P-14, MFC-CH, MFI-CH, MFI-RV.

Roadside stand sales are considered as “Accessory Produce Sales” through the District of Saanich Zoning Bylaw.

What products can be sold?

Food permitted for sale at roadside stands includes fresh locally grown fruits and vegetables, apiary products, trees and forest products, forages and sod crops, grains and seed crops, eggs, and local ornamental and greenhouse products, and other value-added agricultural products that are not capable of supporting the growth of disease-causing organisms or the production of toxins.

Can I sell products from other locations?

Agricultural zones (A-Zones) are permitted to sell products from other agricultural (A-zoned) properties. All other zones are only permitted to sell food that has been produced on the same lot.

Size & Siting Permissions

 Health & Safety

• Sell lower-risk agricultural products only. See the District of Saanich definition for lower-risk agricultural products. If you’re unsure about a product, contact your Local Health Authority.
• Ensure your roadside stand is kept in a clean and sanitary condition.
• Regularly disinfect all surfaces, including shelves, display units, bins, and equipment.
• Dispose of any spoiled or unsellable food promptly.
• Practice hygienic harvesting and food handling techniques.
• Consider clearly labelling products with names and ingredient descriptions.
• Cover products to protect food from contamination, dust, and pests.
• Use shade structures to protect food from direct sunlight.
• Consider providing hand disinfectant to customers.
• Display your business licence on or near your roadside stand.

Signs

• One sign smaller than 0.185 m² is allowed if it is attached to the roadside stand.
• For larger or detached signs, a sign permit will be required.
• More information on obtaining a sign permit can be found at: Sign Permit Application | District of Saanich

Business Licence

• An annual Saanich business licence is required for all accessory produce sales through roadside stands.
• The cost of a business licence for accessory produce sales is free for all zones.
• Home-Based Business Licence Application Form