Vineyard Practices for Being a Good Neighbor

In Napa Valley, farming is more than a livelihood—it’s a legacy. While agriculture enjoys strong protections under Napa County’s “Right to Farm” policies, the long-term sustainability of our region depends on more than laws. It depends on relationships. Vineyard practices can affect nearby homes, schools, and rural roads, which means growers play a crucial role in shaping how the public experiences agriculture.
Being a good neighbor is a core part of environmental stewardship and a reflection of the industry’s shared values. Whether you're a multigenerational grower or new to the vineyard lifestyle, here are practical ways to build trust and goodwill within your community.

1. ​Start with Connection

• Build relationships before concerns arise. Reach out to your neighbors personally—invite them to walk your vineyard, share a glass of wine, or learn about your farming practices
• Open the door to communication. Encourage neighbors to contact you directly if they have questions or concerns. A proactive conversation can often prevent misunderstandings later

2. Be Mindful of Nighttime Activities

• Provide advance notice of any nighttime work like spraying or harvesting. These activities can be disruptive, and a heads-up shows respect.
• Harvest respectfully: Position your staging areas and lighting to minimize impact—keep floodlights pointed away from homes and reduce excess noise wherever possible.

3. Reduce Noise Impacts from Frost Protection

• Use wind machines responsibly. Install quieter models whenever possible and avoid placing them near neighboring homes. Start them as late and stop them as early as your crop conditions allow.
• It’s not just good manners—it can save fuel and reduce costs, too.

4. Be Smart with Light and Equipment

• Minimize the use of lights during night harvest, as light pollution affects sleep and quality of life. Direct lights downward and away from homes.
• Follow Napa County guidelines on noise-generating devices like propane cannons. One cannon per five acres, limited hours of use, and a minimum of 600 feet from homes or animal enclosures is the standard.

📄 Review the official Napa County Customs & Standards here »
5. Extend Invitations and Build Understanding

• Invite neighbors to Afternoon in the Vineyards. This annual event helps demystify vineyard operations and celebrates the beauty of working lands. NVG is happy to send personal invitations on your behalf.
• Welcome new neighbors. When someone moves in, take the time to explain vineyard seasonality and what to expect at different times of year. It sets the tone for a positive relationship from the start.

Key takeaways: 

• Connection comes first. Strong neighbor relationships start with proactive outreach, transparency, and a willingness to listen.
  
• Farming can be disruptive—but thoughtful practices reduce impacts. Noise, light, and timing matter. Plan operations with your neighbors in mind.
  
• You represent the Napa Valley wine community. Every grower’s actions help shape public perception of the industry’s care for the land and the people who live among it.