Allotments are small plots of cultivatable land that are set aside and rented specifically for the production of fruit, vegetables, flowers and herbs.
Allotments can bring a variety of benefits, not just to individual plot holders, but also to their families, their communities and the environment. Allotments provide green spaces and are an important part of the city's community infrastructure. Allotments are places where you can:
- Grow your own organic produce.
- Exercise and improve your physical well-being.
- Relax and improve your mental well-being.
- Learn and develop new skills.
- Socialise with like-minded people.
- Organise community activities.
- Help to protect wildlife.
Allotment sizes
Aberdeen has 517 Council owned allotment plots located across 21 sites. There are also a few sites in private ownership. Our allotment plots vary in size from approximately 300m2 for a full size plot, 225m2 for a 3/4 size plot, 150m2 for a half size plot, and <50m2 for a micro plot. Most of our allotments are in the south of the city.
Fees
The fees to rent a Council allotment plot for 2020/21 are:
| Plot | Size (approx) | Annual fee | Concession |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full | 300m2 | £88.07 | £44.04 |
| 3/4 | 225m2 | £66.02 | £33.01 |
| 1/2 | 150m2 | £43.98 | £21.99 |
| - | 130m2 | £41.10 | £20.55 |
| - | 110m2 | £33.78 | £16.89 |
| - | 100m2 | £31.42 | £15.71 |
| - | 80m2 | £25.13 | £12.57 |
| - | 50m2 | £14.32 | No concession |
| <50m2 | £12.67 | No concession | |
| Micro plot | <50m2 | £12.67 | No concession |
Micro plots are used as temporary starter plots. They are awarded at our discretion, you cannot apply for one.
These costs include water charges.
Please note that if the current fees change, all individual allotment plot holders will be informed about any changes before they are implemented.
Allotment Regulations
The regulations for allotment sites managed by Aberdeen City Council can be viewed/downloaded below;
Apply for an allotment
If you live in Aberdeen you can apply online to rent an allotment plot in the city.
Allotments are increasingly popular. More often than not there will be a waiting list for an allotment plot at all our allotment sites. If there is no allotment plot available at your chosen location when you apply, you will be automatically placed on the waiting list. You can apply and be on the waiting list for an allotment at more than one site.
You could be on the waiting list for a while until an allotment becomes available.
Please note: The Council will only allocate one allotment plot per residence.
Food growing strategy
Aberdeen City Council's food growing strategy, Granite City Growing, has now been adopted.