Kettering Allotments Society

Fences on plots - policy document

Preamble

The Society recognises that some plot holder tenants have erected fences around their plots in the past. This policy is to clarify what is acceptable. 

Key points

• The Society does not encourage fences around plots

• The top priority for allotments is the cultivation of crops

• Erecting a fence does not count as cultivation

• Fences should not be erected during a new tenant’s probationary period

• We recognise that in some circumstances a fence may help, eg rabbit infestation

• Safety of our members is essential

• Any fence or structure must be as safe as possible

• Sharp edges and other hazards on fences must be removed to make safe

• A high fence that is not see-through poses a serious health and safety hazard in case a plot holder is injured and incapacitated and cannot be seen to be assisted

• Field stewards and the committee have the duty to inspect plots

• Field stewards have the right to inspect any plot

• Any solid (non see-through fence) must be a maximum of 4 feet or 1 metre high

• Wire fences that can be seen through can be higher than 4 feet (eg Heras panel or similar)

• Concrete is not allowed on allotments, so fence posts should never be concreted in

• Any plot that does not allow the Field Stewards (and Committee) a full and clear view of the full plot held, the tenant must put in place a viewable section within 3 months of being notified by the Field Stewards (or Committee). Failure to do so will be a contravention of Rule 17 of the Kettering Allotments Society rules of tenancy and subject to the Society's  disciplinary procedures 

version 1.1 adopted by committee December 2022