NC H787

Creates a new cause of action allowing owners of bona fide farms on rural property to file civil suits for regulatory takings when environmental regulations or state/local ordinances prevent economically viable farm use.

Applies to property outside municipal corporate limits, including property within a municipality's extraterritorial jurisdiction, and defines "bona fide farm purpose" according to existing statute G.S. 153A-340.

Allows property owners to seek compensation against any condemnor listed in G.S. 40A-3(b) or (c) when land can no longer be used for farm purposes in an economically viable manner due to regulations enacted for general environmental benefit to the region.

Awards reasonable attorneys' fees and costs to property owners who prevail in regulatory taking actions under this statute.

Effective upon enactment and applies to causes of action filed on or after the effective date.