Property tax break for farm improvements on dedicated vacant land

(a) For the purposes of this section, the following definitions apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning. Drainage Systems. Agricultural systems of channels, ditches, pipes, pumps, and accessory facilities established for the purpose of drawing off water from a land area. Incremental Increase in the Valuation of Real Property Attributable to Qualifying Agricultural Land Improvements. The sum of all documented expenses incurred to construct the qualifying agricultural land improvements. Irrigation Systems. The agricultural systems of intakes, diversions, wells, ditches, siphons, pipes, reservoirs, and accessory facilities established for the purpose of providing water for agricultural production. Qualifying Agricultural Land Improvements. Construction, reconstruction, or improvement of irrigation systems, drainage systems or roads, soil conservation, fire protection, or animal control measures on land classified as vacant agricultural land as defined in § 8-7.1 (c) and dedicated for 10 years under § 8-7.3 (d), where the cost of such improvements is equal to or greater than $10,000. (b) Any incremental increase in the valuation of real property attributable to qualifying agricultural land improvements shall be exempt from property taxes for a period of seven years following the construction of the agricultural land improvements. (c) The claim for exemption shall be filed with the director on or before September 30 preceding the tax year for which such exemption is claimed on such form as shall be prescribed by the department. The claim shall be supported by documentation describing the agricultural land improvements, establishing that the agricultural land improvements have been constructed, and establishing the amount of expenses therefor. Any additional qualifying agricultural improvements for a subsequent fiscal year shall be separately claimed. (d) The claim for exemption, once allowed, shall continue for a period of seven years.