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 544 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 2022/23 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;
Allotment Information
If you live in Aberdeen you can apply online to rent an allotment plot in the city.
Allotments are very popular. There are waiting lists for an allotment plot at all our allotment sites. Once you apply you will be placed on the waiting list for your chosen site. You can apply and be on the waiting list for a maximum of three sites. There are a variety of plot sizes on each site.
The estimated waiting time for an allotment is currently around 3 years.
The Council will only allocate one allotment plot per residence.
Community Growing
Community growing initiatives are a very accessible way to get involved in growing. These free initiatives allow individuals to be involved in food-growing without the commitment of full time allotmenteering. Community growing provides a great opportunity to grow while helping to maintain social connections and physical and mental health.
If you would like to get involved with a community growing project, find out more here: Aberdeen Food Growing – Google My Maps
If you wish to apply for an allotment, please click below