Managing tenure for allotment garden plots

Allotment-style gardens have individual gardening plots that are leased out to the community. There are allotment gardens directly managed by NParks in parklands or managed by Grassroots Organisations and Town Councils in housing estates. Communities and Grassroots Organisations interested to start allotment gardens in housing estates can indicate their interest via this form to seek guidance from NParks on site selection, garden design, and garden establishment.

Tenure refers to the conditions under which individuals can lease out an allotment plot. They generally cover:

• The length of time a plot can be leased
• The tenure fee for leasing the plot
• Rules and regulations for the leasing and continued usage of a plot
• Timelines and rules for how the plot should be returned at the end of tenure

Tenure guidelines

Communities starting their own allotment garden can reference our sample tenure agreement for terms and conditions, and modify them to suit their context. For example, some plots could be set aside for priority groups such wheelchair users for wheelchair-accessible planter beds, or residents that live nearby.

Download our Guide to Designing and Implementing Allotment Gardens and reference annex A for a sample tenure agreement.

Tenure timelines

The tenure period for most allotment plots will be between 1 - 3 years. During this period, gardeners can grow plants and build structures that are within the rules of the garden.

However, gardeners will need to return the plot in its original state to prepare it for the next gardener at the end of the tenure period. Managing bodies should initiate transition planning at least 6 months before the end of the tenure. This could involve recruiting for new gardeners to join or for prompting existing gardeners to renew their tenure, in accordance with the rules established by the managing bodies. Timely reminders for existing gardeners to prepare for renewal or to transition out is crucial for communities to make the necessary preparations, and to ensure clear communications within the group.

Tenure termination

In the event a gardener is no longer able to or unwilling to maintain their allotment plot, the managing body retains the right to terminate the tenure before the stipulated time. Managing bodies are encouraged to have regular check-ins with gardeners to gauge their interest in gardening and to remind them of good allotment gardening practices to set a standard for housekeeping.