FAQs

For comprehensive guidance on the rules of your tenancy agreement and getting the best out of your plot, see the YACIO Tenant Handbook 2020

Can I erect a shed or a greenhouse?

There are rules concerning the erection of sheds and greenhouses and you will need to fill out an application form. Please refer to the YACIO Tenant Handbook (link above).

Can I keep livestock?

Again, this may be possible but there are restrictions. Pleae refer to the YACIO Tenant Handbook (link above).

Am I allowed to have a bonfire?

Under the terms of your tenancy agreement you can only have a bonfire if it does not cause a nuisance. You are not permitted to light a fire between Easter and October unless it is a cold grey day and will not cause a nuisance. Holgate Allotments are located very near residential streets and in the past bonfires have caused problems for our neighbours. Please be aware that allowing a bonfire to cause a nuisance may be an offence under environmental protection law.

Can I use carpet or membranes to suppress weeds?

At the YACIO AGM in 2019 it was decided that carpet is now prohibited on allotment sites. Over time carpet gets covered by soil as plots change hands. Many plotholders are now finding that as they dig their plots they are uncovering degrading bits of synthetic carpet. Please be mindful that you are the custodian of a piece of land that will be in cultivation for generations. In light of this, HAA also recommend that you use only biodegradable weed suppressant membranes.

Will a skip be provided for rubbish removal?

Due to changes in the way rubbish is collected and processed in York, skips are no longer being provided on allotment sites. Bear this in mind when you bring material onto your plot. Anything brought onto your plot will need to be disposed of by you. If you inherit a plot with a lot of rubbish please contact Paul Graham, the Site Secretary for further guidance.

I have seen rats on my allotment. What can I do?

Rat traps are absolutely prohibited on the site as other wildlife, such as hedgehogs, can be seriously injured and killed. Holgate Allotments is near a beck which means there will always be some rats on site. Bird food lying on the ground and cooked food in compost heaps can attract higher numbers of rats to your plot.