Changes to allotments policy, tenancy agreement and transition rules

We are seeking your views on proposed changes to the rules for allotment plots which are owned by us. In 2023, we completed a major review of the allotments policy, tenancy agreement and transition rules. This has been working well and we are now proposing some refinement to some of the rules. We are grateful to all the tenants, co-workers and those on the waiting list who have adapted to the policy and rules. This helps to keep our allotments for the prime purpose of growing.

The changes in this consultation aim to make the rules clearer, fairer for existing allotment holders, and easier to follow for everyone. They cover areas such as cultivation requirements, the use of vehicles and caravans, limits on fruit crops, and the keeping of animals and livestock. 

The proposed updates include: 

• options for the succession of allotments by co-workers
• changes to how much of each plot must be cultivated and what counts towards this requirement
• clearer limits on buildings/structures and fruit crops
• updates to rules on caravans and animal welfare
• changes to the transition arrangements to help existing tenants adapt to the new rules

Your feedback is important and will help us ensure the final rules are practical and fair for all allotment holders, co-workers and for those 2,000 people on the waiting list for a plot.

Please read the summary of proposed changes before answering the questions. If anything is unclear or you have suggestions, there is space at the end of the survey for your comments. 

Summary of proposed changes to allotment rules 

1. Tenancies and co-workers

Current rule: We operate a co-worker registration system to manage succession of the allotment. Tenants may register one co-worker per plot, enabling plots to pass to family or friends after five years of joint commitment. After five years, co-workers gain a right to take over the plot if the tenant gives it up. Before five years, plots are offered to waiting list applicants. Co-workers remain on the waiting list even if they decline other plots.

Proposed options:

• Continue with the existing policy
• Change the rule to less than five years
• Change the rule to more than five years

Why this matters: This system has caused upset where plots hold emotional significance for families and friends where a co-worker has not been registered, or they do not meet the current rules. Any change must balance fairness with compassion for tenants, co-workers and those on the waiting list.

2. Vehicles and caravans 

Current rule: No vehicles, caravans, trailers, or vehicle parts (including tyres) are allowed on allotment plots. 

Proposed change: This rule stays the same for new tenants—caravans are not permitted. However, if a current tenant already has a caravan, they can keep it until their tenancy ends or the caravan becomes unusable. This is a transition rule to avoid forcing existing tenants to remove their caravans immediately. 

Why this matters: It balances keeping the site tidy with fairness to long-standing tenants.  

3. Cultivation requirements 

Current rule: 75% of each plot must be used for cultivation or other productive use. That is made up of 50% for growing fruit and vegetables and the other 25% can for a combination of fruit, vegetables or show flowers. The remaining 25% can be used for other approved purposes (like sheds, compost, sitting areas, approved animals or wildlife areas), but structures cannot take up more than 25% of the total plot. 

Proposed change: reduce the rule to 50% cultivation (including what is grown in greenhouses and poly-tunnels). The remaining 50% can be used for other things, as long as they do not break the agreement. Structures still cannot exceed 25% of the plot. Grass and weeds must be kept cut back regularly, including on bordering paths or tracks. 

Why this matters: It makes the rules clearer and helps everyone understand what is expected for plot maintenance whilst offering more flexibility.  

4. Restrictions on cropping 

Current rule: Its currently not always clear how much of the plot can be used for fruit crops as part of the current 75% cultivation use. Fruit trees and bushes must be dwarf varieties, planted at least 1 meter from plot boundaries, and not block inspections or cause problems for neighbours. 

Proposed change: Clarify that fruit crops can cover no more than 25% of the plot.

Why this matters: This prevents plots from being dominated by fruit trees and keeps them accessible and manageable.  

5. Animals and livestock 

Current rule: Tenants must get written approval before bringing animals onto the plot. Only certain animals are allowed (hens, rabbits, ducks, geese, pigeons—not cockerels). The rules specify that all relevant animal welfare laws must be followed, and animals must not cause a nuisance or health risk. The area for animals must be securely fenced and cannot take up more than 50% of the plot and allow cultivation of the other 50% of the plot.

Proposed change: If a plot is historically used mainly for pigeons, larger structures may be allowed, but tenants must tidy up and reduce structures to 25% of the plot when they leave. This is exempt from the 50% cultivation rule and would require permission. 

Why this matters: It strengthens animal welfare, clarifies responsibilities, and ensures plots remain tidy and fair for all.  

This consultation will close on 1 February 2026

Paper copies of this survey are available from Allotment Associations.