If you operate a farm or agritourism business, your state may have specific laws designed to protect you from liability related to the inherent risks of being on a farm.
These laws vary by state, and it’s important to understand how they apply to your business, especially if you host overnight RV stays.
This article provides general information and resources to help you explore what protections may be available in your area.
What Is “Inherent Risk” in Agritourism?
Many states have Agritourism laws that provide farms with limited liability protection for injuries resulting from the inherent risks of agricultural activities.
“Inherent risks” may include things like:
Uneven ground
Farm equipment
Animals
Natural conditions
To qualify for these protections, states often require:
Specific signage to be posted on the property
A properly worded waiver signed by visitors
The required language for signage and waivers varies by state, so it is important to confirm what applies where you operate.
How to Determine What Applies in Your State
Because laws differ by state, we recommend:
Checking with your State Farm Bureau
Contacting your State Agritourism Association, if applicable
Reviewing your state’s laws through the National Agricultural Law Center
Some State Farm Bureaus or Agritourism Associations provide approved waiver language, signage templates, or printed signs that meet state requirements.
Even if your state does not offer formal agritourism liability protections, posting signage and using waivers may still help reduce risk. Always confirm what is legally appropriate in your state.