Rules and Guidance for Renting an Allotment
Welcome to the rules and guidance page for allotment holders. Here, you’ll find essential information to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and productive experience on your plot. The rules are divided into categories based on their significance, ranging from termination rules (T Rules) to general guidance (G Rules). Please review them carefully and reach out to your Site Rep if you have any questions.
Rules Leading to Immediate Termination (T Rules)
The following rules are essential for maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all allotment holders. Failure to comply may result in immediate termination of your tenancy.
T1: You MUST pay your allotment rent and associated fees before the AGM.
T2: You are not allowed to remove anything from a vacant plot unless given permission by the Site Rep or Allotment Officer.
T3: You must not use any abusive or threatening behaviour on site, be it physical or verbal.
T4: You must not fly-tip any materials, arisings, or rubbish anywhere else on the allotment site.
T5: You must not take anyone else’s produce or property from their plot without their permission.
T6: You are not permitted to carry or use a firearm at any time on site.
T7: The use of snares is strictly forbidden for catching wildlife using the site.
Rules That May Result in Warnings (W Rules)
The following rules are important to maintain a safe and respectful environment for all allotment holders. Failure to comply may result in a warning from the committee.
W1: You must cultivate at least 50% of your plot and maintain the remainder to keep it free from weeds.
W2: You must not cause a nuisance to other plot holders or neighbouring properties.
W3: You must erect a clearly visible number on your plot.
W4: You and your registered associates must always lock the gates when entering and leaving the site.
W5: Please use water sparingly and avoid direct crop watering with a hose.
W6: You must get permission from the committee to erect or replace sheds, greenhouses, or poly tunnels.
W7: Dogs are allowed if kept on a lead and strictly under control.
W8: Do not enter other plots without permission and supervise children at all times.
W9: Subletting plots is prohibited; the named plot holder must work the plot at least 50% of the time.
W10: Trees must be restricted to 8ft in height and planted 1m from boundaries.
W11: Allotment plots or their produce must not be used for trade or business.
W12: Carpets are not allowed on allotment plots.
W13: Tyres are prohibited on site.
W14: Do not bring, burn, or store rubbish on-site.
W15: Do not dig up or obstruct paths between plots.
W16: Keys must not be shared or given to unregistered associates.
W17: Seek prior approval before using concrete on plots.
W18: Bonfires must not cause a nuisance and should only burn dry materials.
W19: The named plot holder must be present at least 50% of the time for shared plots.
W20: Planting invasive plants, such as bamboo, is prohibited.
W21: Cars blocking site gates must display the plot number or contact details.
W22: The use of weed killers or chemicals intended to kill vegetation is prohibited
Guidance (G Rules)
The following guidance is provided to help you make the most of your allotment plot and maintain a safe and harmonious environment for all members.
G1: You can plant herbs and flowers as well as fruit and vegetables.
G2: Small lawn areas are permitted if regularly cut.
G3: Ponds are allowed if built safely; consult your site rep for advice.
G4: Maintain areas around fruit bushes and ensure trees are of dwarf root stock.
G5: You are responsible for maintaining paths, verges, and hedges around your plot.
G6: Composting green waste is encouraged, but bins must not encroach on paths.
G7: Report damaged fences to your site rep.
G8: Report unfamiliar people on-site and ask about their purpose.
G9: Inform the Site Manager if you change your address or circumstances.
G10: Remove belongings and return keys within 14 days of vacating or eviction.
G11: Do not block communal pathways.
G12: Use noisy machinery only during permitted hours.
G13: Report theft or vandalism to the police and obtain a crime reference number.
G14: Treat Site Reps and committee members with respect.
G15: Maintain adjacent leats if your plot borders one.
G16: Raise committee matters with Site Reps or the Society Secretary, not inspectors.
G17: Obtain committee permission for contractors on-site.
G18: Vehicular access to Site A requires committee permission.
G19: Evicted members may reapply for membership after one year at the committee’s discretion.