Businesses running on-farm events and attractions must comply with the following legislation. This is not an exhaustive list, and legal advice should always be taken before making any business decisions.

  • The Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 set out which ‘changes of use’ of agricultural property require planning permission.
  • The Equality Act 2010 and similar legislation in Northern Ireland require business owners to take measures to ensure that their facilities are accessible to customers with disabilities.
  • The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and equivalent legislation in Northern Ireland require employers and self-employed people to protect the health and safety of their employees and anyone else that may be affected by their business activities, such as visitors to farm attractions.

See also: An overview of insurance cover for business


  • The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and equivalent legislation in Northern Ireland require employers and self-employed people to carry out workplace risk assessments, take appropriate measures to reduce risk, and provide health and safety training for employees.
  • The Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013 and equivalent legislation in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland require business owners that sell food or drink products, such as refreshments at an on-farm attraction, to ensure that they are safe for human consumption. The main provisions include premises registration, food safety management systems, staff training, and cleaning and maintenance practices.

This content is restricted

Please register as a free member of the Rural Business Network or log in to your existing account to view the full content.

Sign up to our newsletter

Get it now

Search for new diversification ideas

Search here

Find the products or services YOU need

Find an expert

Access exclusive member content

Get it now

Contact us for help and advice

Get in touch