Rules for allotment plot holders

The rules must be observed by plotholders. They

• clarify responsibilities
• assist in delivering a safe, healthy and rewarding experience for all plotholders
• help the Council manage allotment sites for the benefit of all and the environment.

Cultivation

75% of the plot area should be under cultivation at any time. Plots should be well stocked with crops in as healthy a condition as possible. Unplanted areas should be free from weeds and not causing any nuisance to neighbouring plots. The soil should show evidence of being managed.

Attention of plotholders is drawn to the site inspection and termination procedures agreed by the Allotment Strategy Steering Group.

Site rules

You must observe any rules that are particular to your site. If in doubt, contact your site association representative.

Dogs

You may bring dogs on to the site but you must keep them on a lead at all times and not let them be a nuisance to plotholders. You must bag and bin any fouling.

Livestock

Keeping livestock, including bees, is not permitted.

Bonfires

Fires are only permitted only October - April

Generally plant material and weeds should be composted on site.

You may only burn plant material arising from the plot itself, such as diseased plants and excessively woody material that cannot be composted.

You must not

• bring material on to the site for burning.
• Burn synthetic materials, plastics, paper, treated wood, metals or other non-plant material.

You must

• consider other plotholders when choosing where and when to have a bonfire
• not leave the fire untended.

Trees

You must not cultivate, or allow to grow, trees other than fruit trees on the plot.

If requested by the Council, you must agree to the removal of any trees over 7.5cm diameter at breast height.

Other guidelines

Pay attention to guidance produced by the Council and others with advice on composting, promoting biodiversity, organic gardening etc.

Water conservation

Water is not an inexhaustible supply and you must use it responsibly.

Water conservation measures such as mulching are effective in reducing moisture loss and help to control weeds.

Polytunnels

Large polytunnel structures are not currently permitted. Smaller 9x6ft structures are allowed.

Before installation you must seek 

• permission from the allotment officer
• the views of adjacent plotholders.

Allotment Regulations

Our new Allotment Regulations 2021 replace the 1913 regulations to align with the Community Empowerment Act 2015.