Overview

Farm buildings are low-human occupancy structures located on farms, such as livestock housing, storage buildings and bunker silos.

These buildings are subject to a wide range of conditions (temperature, humidity, organic compounds) that can cause both maintenance challenges and health and safety risks.

Managing farm buildings and operating equipment can have effects on energy use, the surrounding environment and those living around your operation.

Construct or renovate farm buildings

Farm buildings include drivesheds, animal housing, manure storages, feed storage (grain bins and silos), anaerobic digesters, greenhouses, fruit and vegetable storage buildings.

Several approvals are required before starting construction, as described in building permit requirements to construct, expand or renovate farm buildings. Additional information for specific livestock buildings is found at dairy housing, beef housing, swine housing and poultry housing.

More information for these approval items is found at:

Resources to assist in developing your construction plans:

Farm building maintenance

Maintaining your farm building throughout its lifespan will ensure a safe and productive structure while extending your investment dollars. Complete general maintenance items such as rodent control, repairing building components and housekeeping (remove garbage, clean fans) regularly. Develop a maintenance program for your operation. Detailed information to assist you is found at:

Farm safety and the environment

Many operations on the farm can present a risk to worker safety and the environment. Adjusting your operating procedures can effectively reduce these risks. Detailed information to assist you is found at:

Equipment management and commodity storage

Proper equipment management can decrease operational costs, limit emissions and maintain the quality of stored commodities. Find technical details and best management practices at:

Energy reduction in farm buildings

Efficient energy systems are essential for your operation. Generating energy, increasing efficiency and ensuring back-up power can ensure business continuity and may decrease operational costs. These topics can help you make informed decisions:

Neighbour relations

Maintain good relationships with your rural neighbours. Many normal operations on the farm can cause odour, light, vibration, smoke, flies, noise or dust nuisances for your neighbours. While these cannot always be avoided, they can be lessened through good communications and using best practices. Find best practices at: