Suffolk County Council says it will oppose future sales of its farmland.
The authority - which is now run by Reform UK - said they should be looked after for the long term rather than being treated as assets for disposal.
It cited their value for food production, nature recovery and rural livelihoods over immediate financial return.
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The county farms estate covers more than 12,000 acres and supports 88 tenants.
Councillor Morgan Brobyn, cabinet member for food, waste and rural affairs, said: "This is a very straightforward decision for me.
"Agriculture is incredibly important to Suffolk, and as a county council we should be doing everything in our power to support and protect it.
"County farms are much more than a line on a balance sheet.
"They support food security, food production, nature recovery, rural livelihoods and opportunities for future generations of farmers."
The council acknowledged that development plans involving its land are already in progress.
These will be reviewed individually, but any potential sales will now face "exceptional scrutiny" and must clearly demonstrate significant and long-term benefits for Suffolk’s agricultural sector.
Decisions will be guided by their impact on the region’s economy, environment and rural communities.
Mr Brobyn said: "We have an outstanding farming community in Suffolk, and we want the council's county farms to continue creating opportunities for generations to come.
"Those priorities will guide how we manage the estate in future."
Paul Button, chairman of the County Farms Tenants Association, welcomed the council’s renewed stance.
Mr Button said: "For me, county farms are about opportunity.
"They give people the chance to establish themselves in farming, develop their skills and build a sustainable business.
"Protecting these holdings helps safeguard that pathway for future tenants.
"It also recognises the wider value that county farms bring through food production, nature recovery and support for rural communities."
