When you grow an edible garden, not only are you are enjoying a healthy, inexpensive, all-ages friendly outdoor recreation activity, it is also a fantastic Take Action experience which contributes to Burlington’s Climate Action Plan.
There are five community gardens with 230 plots available, plus more on the planning horizon. Location details are below. Thirteen are raised accessible plots for people with limited mobility. Seven donation plots are dedicated to providing fresh food to local food bank programs run by volunteers of the Burlington Food Bank.
In January 18, Mayor Marianne Meed-Ward proclaimed the year 2022 as the Year of the Garden in celebration of the contribution of gardens and gardening to the development of our city and the lives of our citizens in terms of health, quality of life and environmental challenges.
Throughout this year, we will be sharing various information, tips and tricks to the community on our social media channels.
Learn more about Year of the Garden.
Each community garden has full sun, water supply, soil, wood chips for pathways, a storage shed, some large tools, compost bins and a picnic table.
Plot styles |
Raised accessible plots: 1m x 3m Ground plots: 2m x 3.6m |
Amherst Park Community Garden |
Location: 2030 Amherst Heights Crt. Features:
Burlington Transit: |
Central Park Community Garden |
Location: Features:
Burlington Transit: ![]() |
Francis Road Bikeway Community Garden |
Location: Adjacent to Francis Road Trail near Marley Road Features:
Burlington Transit: |
Ireland Park Community Garden |
Location: 2315 Headon Forest Dr. Features:
Burlington Transit:
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Maple Park Community Garden |
Location: 750 Maple Ave. Features:
Burlington Transit: |
Applications for the 2022 season closed Nov. 30, 2021. Thank you to all that applied. All garden plots have been assigned for 2022.
Applications for the 2023 season will open by May 2022 and close on Nov. 30, 2022. You will need to create a Live & Play account before applying.
Learn how to apply for the Community Garden Lottery Registration.
How to apply for Community Gardens |
Plots are assigned by a lottery draw for each season. The season lottery takes place in early December each year.
Read the Garden Rules prior to submitting your application. You must read and agree to the garden rules. |
Garden Rules |
Welcome to Burlington's Community Gardens. It is important for the success, security, and smooth functioning of these community gardens that all gardeners and guests read, clearly understand, and comply with the following garden regulations. Please contact the Community Garden Coordinator at communitygardens@burlington.ca or call 289-983-6527 with any questions.
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The community garden coordinator will notify all applicants of the outcome of the lottery in early December. Successful applicants will be assigned a garden plot and directed how to confirm and register. Please note that payment must be made within ten business days. If payment is not received, the plot will transfer to the next applicant on the waitlist.
How to get started |
Awarding Process
Gardening
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Frequently asked questions |
Are donations accepted? Yes, please! Donations of tools in good condition, patio umbrellas with stands, vegetable seeds and seedlings are welcome. Please contact the community garden coordinator at communitygardens@burlington.ca. Do you offer tours of the gardens? Yes a school field trip may be arranged. Contact the community garden coordinator at communitygardens@burlington.ca. Can more community gardens be built? Burlington's Strategic Plan 2015 - 2040 supports the development of new community gardens across Burlington which may be built and operated either by the City on park land, or by community groups on private, faith, institutional and school lands. If you have a location idea for a garden you would like to explore further the community garden coordinator is available to consult with any Burlington agency, business, school or resident group. A suitable garden location should meet basic criteria including: level uncontaminated site, full sun, water access, near transit, near mixed medium to high multi-unit housing, and have a supporting community group. Funding opportunities for new community gardens: (Be sure to check application deadlines.)
With the new lottery registration system, do I have to apply for the lottery every year? You will have to reapply each year to the community gardens lottery by following the same steps in the how-to. The lottery opening dates will be communicated before the launch. How do I withdraw from lottery? If you wish to withdraw, please contact customer service:
Who can I reach out to if I have a question? Customer service can be reached by emailing liveandplay@burlington.ca or calling 905-335-7738. |
Resources and Relevant Links
For more information, contact the community garden coordinator at communitygardens@burlington.ca or call 289-983-6527.