Many farm families are looking for new ways to diversify their income. Whether it's a farm store, pumpkin patch, corn maze, wedding venue, petting zoo, or seasonal event space, agritourism can create valuable revenue while helping connect consumers to agriculture.

Unfortunately, many producers assume their existing farm liability policy automatically covers these new activities. In reality, adding agritourism to your operation can significantly change your liability exposure, and failing to notify your insurance agent could leave you with coverage gaps when a claim occurs.

Why Agritourism Changes Your Risk Profile

• A visitor trips and falls on uneven ground.
• A customer is injured while climbing a hay wagon.
• A child is kicked by an animal in a petting area.
• A guest becomes injured while attending a wedding or special event.
• Food products sold through a farm market cause illness.

Common Activities That May Require Additional Coverage

• Pumpkin patches
• Corn mazes
• Petting zoos
• U-pick fruit operations
• Farm stores
• Wedding venues
• Farm-to-table events
• Educational tours
• School field trips
• Haunted attractions
• Seasonal festivals

Don't Assume Coverage Exists

One of the most common mistakes I see is when a family launches a new venture and never updates their insurance program. It is always better to have the conversation before opening to the public than after an accident happens.

Risk Management Still Matters

Insurance is only one piece of protecting your agritourism operation. Consider parking areas, walking paths, lighting, employee training, animal handling procedures, and emergency plans.

Review Your Liability Limits

As visitor counts increase, so does your potential exposure. Many operations may benefit from higher liability limits or an umbrella policy.

Before You Open the Gates

Every agritourism operation is different. Review your plans with your insurance agent to ensure coverage reflects your current operation.

Call to Action

Thinking about adding a pumpkin patch, farm store, wedding venue, or other agritourism venture? Contact us at Dimond Bros. Insurance for a coverage review.

This article is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice.