Allotment legislation sets out how allotment land must be used. These rules apply to all tenants renting plots on our sites, as well as to all other authorised users and visitors.
Our objective is to ensure that allotments remain enjoyable and well-managed spaces, with minimal inconvenience or disturbance to fellow tenants and neighbouring residents.
Tenants who comply with the rules will be supported in renewing their plot tenancy on an annual basis.
Where tenants fail to adhere to the rules, they may be required to remedy any breach within a specified timescale or may be refused renewal of their annual agreement.
All prospective tenants must sign and agree to abide by the rules as a condition of taking on a plot.
These rules are currently under review and may be amended, updated or replaced as necessary.
Any queries relating to the rules should be directed to allotments@bolton.gov.uk
Find out more about your responsibilities:
- Cultivation and maintenance requirements
- Structures – sheds, greenhouses and ponds
- Animals, poultry and bees
Things not permitted on your allotment
- You must not sublet your plot or transfer your tenancy to any other person, including family members.
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Your plot must not be used for any trade or business purposes. This includes the sale of produce grown on the allotment.
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Rubbish or general household waste must not be brought onto the site or stored on your plot.
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Hazardous or potentially harmful materials must not be brought onto site. This includes, but is not limited to, chemicals, asbestos, broken glass, scrap metal and tyres.
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Bonfires, incinerators, burners or any other form of open flame are strictly prohibited.
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The use of hosepipes or sprinkler systems is not permitted.
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The keeping of livestock or poultry is not allowed on allotment plots unless permission is granted through an animal registration process. This includes (but is not limited to) cockerels, rabbits, turkeys, ducks, parrots, pigs, sheep, goats or other livestock.
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Hens and bees may only be kept on site with the prior written permission of the Council. All relevant DEFRA requirements and current animal welfare legislation and guidance must be complied with at all times. Tenants must ensure that any hens or bee colonies are properly registered, where required, to ensure full legal compliance.
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Respect other plot holders
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Allotment keys or key codes are issued for your personal use only. They must not be shared with others, and no one should be granted access to your plot unless you are in attendance.
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You, your children and any visitors must not enter another tenant’s plot without that tenant’s clear permission.
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You must not engage in any behaviour that causes nuisance, disturbance or offence to fellow plot holders or neighbouring residents. This includes (but is not limited to) abusive or discriminatory language, threatening conduct, intoxication, loud music, or the use of illegal substances.
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You must not bring intoxicating liquor or any illegal substances onto the allotment site, and you must not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs at any time while on site.
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Harassment, intimidation or violence whether physical or verbal will not be tolerated under any circumstances. This expectation of conduct also applies to communications made via social media, email or any other platform connected to the allotment site.
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Dogs must be kept under proper control at all times. They must not stray onto paths or other plots, and any fouling must be cleared immediately and removed from the site.
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Staying overnight on an allotment plot is not permitted.
If you do not follow the rules for renting a plot it could lead to enforcement. Find out more about inspections and enforcement