Community Gardens

All entering the community gardens must follow basic personal sanitation practices for controlling the spread of COVID-19 and variants of concern:

• Prior to visiting the garden, gardeners should complete the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 self-assessment tool and follow the instructions provided. Anyone who is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, or who has come into contact with someone who has shown symptoms to the virus must stay at home for 14 days following symptoms clearing: 
  • Fever and/or chills
  • Cough or barking cough (croup)
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sore throat
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Decrease or loss of smell or taste
  • Runny or stuffy/congested nose
  • Headache
  • Nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain
  • Muscle aches
  • Extreme tiredness
  • Pink eye
  • Falling down frequently
• All in the garden must always maintain 2m physical distancing (unless gardening with members of the same household).
• All must maintain sanitary practices recommended by public health.
• Anyone displaying symptoms should be given the following Halton Region contact information and leave the garden. 
• Residents of Burlington Call 905-632-3737, ext. 6550 to book an appointment at Joseph Brant Hospital Assessment Centre.
• Residents can also call 311 to speak to Halton Region Public Health for direction on assessment.
  • Wearing a non-medical mask is strongly recommended while outdoors and required whenever 2m distancing is not possible. Wearing a mask is an additional way of covering the mouth and nose to prevent respiratory droplets from contaminating others or landing on surfaces. This does not replace proven measures like physical distancing and proper hand hygiene.
  • Anyone entering the gardens should wash their hands for 20 seconds with soap or use sanitizer before entering and leaving. Gardeners may bring their own soap and sanitizer. The City will provide a handwashing station. 
  • Avoid touching your face, particularly nose, mouth and eyes.
  • Produce may be donated between gardeners or to local food banks recognizing that any sharing of crops is at your own risk and 2m physical distancing is required.

Enforcement:  

If a gardener appears not to understand or adhere to the safety instructions:

• The community garden coordinator must be notified.
• The gardener must be asked to leave immediately for the day with a copy of these COVID-19 safety instructions.
• If a gardener (including guests) continues to disregard these instructions that gardener will be banned from the garden, their plot and any personal material forfeited at the discretion of the community garden coordinator. 
• Severe infractions of non-compliance from garden members and guests will be forwarded to Halton Police for proper follow-up and possible fines. Halton Regional Police Service COVID hotline to file a report is 905-825-4722.   

Access:

• Do not enter if there are more than 25 people in the garden. This is subject to change in accordance with Halton Region’s restriction level. Return at a later time or do not enter until someone leaves. 
• Persons Allowed: 
  • Garden Coordinator and any other city staff required for maintenance
  • Permitted gardeners including those of their immediate household. 
  • Children should only be brought into a garden on an as-needed basis and be instructed to follow hygiene recommendations and physical distancing. Children who are too young to understand COVID-19 restrictions and hygiene requirements should be kept in a stroller or carried with an on-body support. Gardeners who bring children to the garden are responsible for the children to follow the guidelines and to sanitize any tools the children use.
  • Volunteers of food bank donation program(s) for the purpose of planting, maintenance and harvesting only.
  • Visitors are not permitted to enter during Provincial or Halton Region Lock Down or Stay-at-Home Orders. Otherwise, visitors prior to entering must be granted permission from the Community Garden Coordinator or a permitted gardener currently on site, wash hands with soap and water at the handwashing station, refrain for touching anything and must maintain 2m physical distancing.
• The garden gates must remain closed at all times and locked by the last person to leave. 
• The entry combination codes will only be given to permitted gardeners that have agreed to abide by these instructions and donation plot volunteers that have been instructed and agree to the garden rules and these instructions.
• Service animals and pets may enter; however, animals must be calm, quiet and remain on a leash next to the owner’s plot.
• Gardens are open dawn to dusk. There is no electricity, no lights.

Physical Distancing:

• Unless gardening with members of the same household, everyone must always maintain a distance of at least 2m from other people.
• Particular attention should be paid to high-traffic areas in the common areas such as the sheds, gate, picnic table, water cabinets and supply piles.
• If parking a car, do so as far as is reasonably possible from other vehicles, as is safe and permissible. 

Cleaning and Disinfection:

• Anyone entering the gardens should wash their hands once they have entered and upon leaving.
• Handwashing stations with soap are available in each garden. Caked dirt on gloves and tools should be rinsed off using the garden hose or water barrels to avoid excess dirt at the hand washing stations. Gardeners can also bring their own soap, or soapy water in a thermos, hand sanitizer or a premixed household bleach and water solution. Used disinfecting wipes must be brought home for disposal (reminder: wipes are not flushable).
• Disinfecting solutions: 
  • Hand sanitizer should be >60% alcohol-based or a product approved the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC).
  • Disinfecting wipes contact time is usually the time it takes for the surface to dry. 
  • Diluted bleach has a shelf life of only 24 hours. Household bleach (5% sodium hypochlorite) should be mixed at a ratio of 1:9 or 20ml (4 teaspoons) per litre of water. Contact time is 10 minutes kept wet with product.
  • Mixing products containing chlorine bleach with products containing ammonia releases chloramine gas, which is toxic to people and animals. Use products safely and according to the instructions on the label.
• Gardeners should prepare a travel bag containing their own small tools, towel, two pairs of garden gloves, soap, sanitizer, bags to bring home garbage and harvested produce, and the usual hat, sunscreen, water bottle.
• Gardeners are encouraged to wash their gloves after every use and not to share gloves.
• All gardeners are responsible to clean and disinfect common items and surfaces they have used before and after each use so allow time for this before leaving the garden:
  • Hose nozzles, faucet spigots, water cabinet latch, hose reel handle
  • Handles of all tools (i.e. wheelbarrows, shovels, rakes, hoes, forks)
  • Broom handle
  • Shed and gate latch, lock and chain
  • Pens and dry erase markers
  • Picnic table
• Garbage, plastic trays and pots must be brought home for disposal or recycling to minimize clutter.

Communication:

• The regular garden rules and these COVID-19 safety instructions will be posted in the shed. Extra copies of these instructions will be available to distribute.
• All gardeners will receive these instructions by the Community Garden Coordinator via email or in person to read and communicate agreement in order to participate.

Raised accessible plots: 1m x 3m 

Ground plots: 2m x 3.6m

Location:

2030 Amherst Heights Crt.

Features:

• 31 ground plots

• 2 raised accessible plots

• water

• street parking

• full sun

• storage shed

• security fence

• near playground

• please note there are no public washroom facilities at this garden location

Burlington Transit:
By transit use bus route 2

Location:
2299 New St.

Features:

• 53 ground plots
• 2 raised accessible plots
• parking
• washrooms
• water
• full sun
• storage shed
• security fence
• proximity to playground

Burlington Transit:
Route 4 (Drury Lane) or Route 10 (New Street)

Location:

Adjacent to Francis Road Trail near Marley Road

Features:

• 34 ground plots

• 2 raised accessible plots

• street parking on Warwick Drive

• water

• full sun

• storage shed

• security fence

• please note there are no public washroom facilities at this garden location

Burlington Transit:
Route 4 (Francis Road)

Location:

2315 Headon Forest Dr.

Features:

• 39 ground plots

• 3 raised accessible plots

• water

• lot parking

• full sun

• storage shed

• security fence

• near playground and splash pad

• park public washrooms available

Burlington Transit:
By transit use bus route 6 (Headon) 

Location:

750 Maple Ave.

Features:

• 47 ground plots

• 7 plots are dedicated to the Burlington Food Bank volunteers

• 4 raised accessible plots

• water

• lot parking

• full sun

• storage shed

• security fence

• near playground and skate park

• public washrooms in the park, behind the gymnastics centre

Burlington Transit:
By transit use bus route 10 (New - Maple) 

Plots are assigned by a lottery draw for each season. The season lottery takes place the first week of December each year.

• Due to high demand, garden plot permits are for one season. All plots must be entirely cleared at the end of the season. Annual permit holders may re-enter the next season’s lottery which will include the wait list and new applicants.

• The 2021 garden season begins May 1 and ends Oct. 31.

• The plot permit fee is $51 each season.

• Choose your preferred garden location and plot style.

• Only Burlington residents over 18 years may apply. One per household please.

• It is the responsibility of all applicants and plot permit holders to inform the community garden coordinator of any change to your contact information.

Read the Garden Rules prior to submitting your application. You must read and agree to the 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.

1. Gardeners and their guests must comply with all City of Burlington bylaws, including By-Law No. 35-1976 (being a by-law to regulate the public parks in the City of Burlington) as amended and all City of Burlington policies, including the Zero Tolerance Policy. There are additional COVID-19 operating and safety instructions.

2. Each Gardener is responsible for the proper maintenance of their Garden Plot throughout the duration of the Growing Season, including normal watering, weeding, harvesting, and general care of the Garden Plot. Each Gardener is responsible for providing his/her own tools and equipment, however some common use tools are supplied in the garden shed.
3. If a Garden Plot appears unplanted by June 30, or messy and unattended throughout the season without the Community Garden Coordinator receiving any notice from the Gardener of an acceptable reason, then the Garden Plot will be considered abandoned and it will be reassigned to the next person on the waiting list. The Gardener will have no claim for damages for such reassignment.
4. Use of chemical insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, and fertilizers is prohibited. Only integrated pest management, companion planting, diatomaceous earth, and insecticidal soaps may be used to control pests. Only compost and composted manures may be used in soil conditioning and fertilization. Visit the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs website for more information.
5. Trees and other woody perennial plants are not allowed in the Garden Plot. Vegetables, berries, fruits, grains, beans, herbs, and companion flowers are allowed. Garden Plots and surrounding pathways must be kept free of weeds going to seed, pests, and diseases. Tall plants and vines are only allowed in locations where they will not interfere or shade other plots.
6. Planting of cannabis as legislated by the Cannabis Act, other illegal plants and noxious weeds is prohibited. For more information visit the Cannabis in Canada webpage and the Noxious Weeds in Ontario web page

7. Invasive plants (e.g. mint, Jerusalem artichoke, etc.) must be contained. Plant materials that are on Ontario's Invasive Species list are prohibited. Visit powerhalton.ca for more information.

8. Garden Plots cannot be expanded beyond its measurement into paths or other plots.

9. Gardeners must use the recycling and trash bins as provided in the Park or Garden Plot enclosure. If no bins are available, then each Gardener is responsible for disposing of their garbage. Gardeners must pick up litter when seen and use the recycling bins when appropriate. Any diseased plants, or seedy or invasive weeds are to be bagged and put into trash bins to prevent contamination of compost or other plots.

10. Gardeners may use the composter for all plant material that is not diseased, seedy or invasive, or bring the material home for yard waste disposal. When using the compost bins Gardeners should layer newly applied plant material (i.e. green) with active compost from below to accelerate the decomposition process.

11. No pets are allowed to roam free in the Garden Plot enclosure. Any pet must be on a leash and remain beside their owner's plot.

12. Children must be supervised by an adult.

13. Laneways and paths must be kept clear of obstacles such as tomato cages and plant supports.

14. Bicycles, trailers, baby strollers and wagons may be brought inside the Garden Plot enclosure but should not block laneways or paths.

15. Each Gardener is responsible for the security and safe-keeping of his/her own tools and equipment. Gardeners may use the tool shed for storage at their own risk. Gardeners should label their property and tidy up tools prior to leaving.

16. No lock combinations should be given to another person that is not a gardening partner. Each Gardener shall close and lock the gates and tool shed each time they vacate the Garden Plot enclosure.

17. Installation of any fencing, plant supports, walking boards, tarps, frost blankets or other materials in the Garden Plot must be temporary and removed at the end of the garden season, and should not block sunlight from a neighbouring plot.

18. Gardeners shall be courteous to and considerate of other gardeners and visitors. Use of abusive or profane language is prohibited. Smoking, alcohol, and loud music are prohibited. Each Gardener is solely responsible for the behaviour of their guests.

19. Gardeners must not apply anything to, or pick anything from, another gardener's plot without that gardener's express approval. Theft of items will result in expulsion from the Garden Plot enclosure.

20. Water supply is limited so Gardeners should use water sparingly. Gardeners must ensure that the water tap is shut off and that the garden hose is neatly returned at every visit. Gardeners should use the garden hose to fill and maintain water in the nearest water barrel and replace the lid to avoid mosquitoes entering. Gardeners must refrain from leaving open containers that may collect stagnant water.

21. Gardening activity must take place during daylight hours.

22. Sale of produce from plants is prohibited. Produce must be for personal use and consumption. Donation of produce from Gardeners to local food banks is encouraged but voluntary.

23. Gardeners must report any vandalism, damage, or needed repair of the community garden infrastructure and amenities (e.g. fencing, plot frames, compost, hose bib, water hose, hose reel, lockbox, shed, etc.) to the Community Garden Coordinator. Gardeners must immediately notify the Community Garden Coordinator by phone/text or email of any issues or unusual activities.

24. Francis Road Bikeway Gardeners and Amherst Park Gardeners must use on street parking spaces. Gardeners must adhere to all parking by-laws.

25. Gardeners must advise the Community Garden Coordinator of any change in contact information.

26. Gardeners are encouraged to check garden tip notices on the communication boards in the shed. Any information posted or written on the community boards must be polite and respectful, related to vacation help requests, gardening, harvesting, food preservation, produce donation, produce swapping, or recipes.

27. Gardeners cannot transfer plots to other people. At the end of the Growing Season Gardeners will be asked to confirm their interest in taking part in the garden plot lottery for the following year.

28. Gardeners must provide to the Community Garden Coordinator the name(s) of any gardening partner(s) who are allowed access to the Garden Plot. If the Gardener is away for more than two weeks they must find someone to look after their Garden Plot or request assistance and inform the Community Garden Coordinator.

29. If the Gardener plans to discontinue use of the Garden Plot, they must notify the Community Garden Coordinator so the plot can be reassigned, collectively managed or cleared by the Gardener prior to leaving.

30. Permits are for one season only. Gardeners do not retain plots year over year until further notice. On or before the last day of the Growing Season, all plants, produce, and personal property of the Gardener must be removed from the Garden Plot and the Garden Plot enclosure, and the Garden Plot must be restored to a condition satisfactory to the City. If such items have not been removed after the Growing Season, then they will be deemed to have been abandoned and such items will be disposed of at the discretion of the City and there will be no liability for such disposal.

31. If a Gardener feels that any of these Regulations have been violated, then he/she must provide a written complaint to the Community Garden Coordinator.

32. If a Gardener violates any of these Regulations, then the Gardener will be contacted by the Community Garden Coordinator and the Gardener must resolve the issue as directed. If the violation has not been remedied to the satisfaction of the Community Garden Coordinator, then their Permit may be terminated without refund.

33. Any disagreements or disputes relating to these Regulations will be referred to the City and the decision of the City will be final.

Awarding Process

• A $51 fee is due when you register.

• Permits will be sent via email once payment has been received. 

• Combination codes to enter the garden(s) will be forwarded in late April prior to the May 1 opening date. 

Gardening

• Individuals new to the community garden program will be invited to meet the program coordinator to receive an orientation in the last week of April and first week of May. 

• Each community garden has full sun, and supplies water, soil, compost, wood chips for pathways, a storage shed, some large tools, compost bins and a picnic table.

• You should expect to visit your garden on average twice per week depending on weather, maintenance, harvest needs, and arrange for vacation coverage.

• A friendly community garden program coordinator visits the gardens and is available year-round by phone or email to provide gardening tips or answer any questions about the community garden program.

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?

During COVID-19, all programs are subject to the latest Provincial public health measures, advice and restrictions for Burlington as we continue to respond to the pandemic. Visit our COVID-19 page for up-to-date information on what’s open and closed. At this time our free tours for horticulture groups, school field trips, or youth groups are cancelled due to COVID restrictions. In future these can be arranged for any location by contacting 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.)

• City of Burlington Community Support Fund
• Halton Region Community Investment Fund
• Whole Kids Foundation Grants
• Toyota Evergreen Learning Grounds School Ground Greening Grants
• TD Friends of the Environment Foundation Grants
• Burlington Foundation Granting Program
• Greening Sacred Spaces