Community gardens
Community gardens give new life to areas that have not been cared for. They are also a good way for tenants to stay active while engaging with others in the community. We encourage the growth of community gardens by providing information and resources to community members.
Community gardens
Did you know there are almost 70 Toronto Community Housing (TCHC) community gardens across the city?
Community gardens help people grow fresh, healthy food for themselves and share it with others who may need it. They also create opportunities to learn about nutrition and food security in a hands-on way.
Beyond food, community gardens bring people together. They give new life to underused spaces and are a good way for people to stay active, connect with neighbours, and take pride in their community.
To help keep these shared spaces safe, inclusive, and well-cared for, we’ve outlined a few guidelines for how TCHC community gardens are used.
Community garden policy
Following tenant consultations held in 2025, the Interim Community Gardens Policy and Procedure were updated to improve how gardens are managed and make them simpler to access.
The valuable feedback gathered from tenants helped shape an updated Community Garden Policy that was presented and approved at the Board of Directors meeting on February 17, 2026.
Community garden manual
Starting a community garden and helping it to thrive over the long term is a journey that calls for commitment, careful planning, and collaboration. The result can be a garden rich with delicious, fresh food and a supportive, vibrant community. This manual is intended to give you tools to help make your TCHC gardening process easier and more productive.
This manual is a complement to the Tenant Community Gardens Policy. It includes:
Part one: what you need to know to start a community garden and keep it going well.
Part two: links to more information on everything from growing plants to group process to fundraising.
A list of sources for funding and donations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Commonly asked questions about conditions and expectations for tenants and tenant-led groups to start and/or participate in community gardens on TCHC property.
What is a Tenant Community Garden?
A non-residential space on TCHC property that is approved for tenant-led gardening activities. These spaces may be used for growing food, pollinator plants, beautification, or composting, depending on the garden type. These include:
- allotment gardens (individual plots)
- beautification gardens (shared non-food gardens)
- collective gardens (shared food or beautification gardens)
- indoor gardens
- rooftop gardens, and
- composting systems.
Who can participate in a community garden?
Any TCHC tenant in good standing with Tenancy Management. Good standing with TCHC means a tenant is in compliance with their lease obligations, specifically regarding legal and behavioural standards. They must live in the building or site where the garden is located. The gardener must be at least 16 years old for independent gardening. To learn more about participation requirements, you can read the Community Garden Policy.
How do I apply for a garden plot or garden space?
Tenants must complete a Gardener Application Form and Community Gardening Agreement. Please contact your Engagement Community Services Coordinator (CSC) for the Gardening Agreement.
How are garden plots assigned?
Allotment garden plots are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, using a waitlist. Each household may hold one plot for up to three consecutive years. This term is subject to renewal and waitlist demand.
Can I renew my garden plot after three years?
If there is a waitlist, tenants who have not previously held a plot are prioritized. If there is no waitlist, tenants may reapply annually after the three-year period.
What if I have accessibility needs?
Tenants may identify accessibility needs on the application form. TCHC will make reasonable efforts to accommodate needs. This includes plot reassignment or accessible garden design for new gardens.
When is the gardening season?
The gardening season generally runs from May 1 to November 14, weather permitting. Gardening is not permitted outside this period.
What hours can I use the garden?
Community gardens may be used daily between 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
What happens if I don’t maintain my plot?
If a plot is not planted or maintained and gardening has not begun by June 15, it may be considered abandoned. At that time, it will be reassigned to another tenant on the waitlist.
Are pesticides allowed?
No. Tenants are not permitted to use pesticides in any community garden space.
Are there plants that are not allowed?
Yes. Prohibited plants include invasive species, poisonous plants, illegal plants, and plants used to produce controlled substances.
Can I bring pets into the garden?
Pets are not allowed in community garden spaces. Trained service animals are permitted.
What activities are not allowed in the garden?
Smoking, vaping, alcohol consumption, illegal drug use, loud noise, and non-approved activities are prohibited in community gardens.
What happens if garden rules are broken?
Breaches are categorized as minor, major, or severe. Minor issues should be resolved by gardeners. Major and severe breaches are handled by TCHC and may result in warnings, suspension, or removal from gardening privileges.
How do I propose a new community garden?
Tenants may submit a Community Garden Proposal Form online or to their Engagement Community Services Coordinator (CSC). Proposed sites are reviewed for safety, accessibility, and operational suitability before approval.
Who should I contact if I have questions or concerns?
Tenants should contact their local Engagement Community Services Coordinator (CSC). If you are not sure who your CSC is, contact the Client Care Centre at 416-981-5500 or help@torontohousing.ca.
Garden application forms
TCHC allows tenants and tenant-led groups to use existing community garden spaces for growing produce or for community beautification only on a non-profit basis.
- If you are a new gardener or your current gardening reservation period has ended, please fill out a new application.
- If you are a returning gardener and your reservation period has not ended, or if your gardening application has been approved by your Engagement Community Services Coordinator (CSC), then you must complete a Community Gardening Agreement before using or entering your community garden.
Gardener application
All tenants interested in gardening must complete this form to apply to use community garden space on TCHC property.
If your current garden reservation period is still active, you do not need to complete this application.
Additional support
If you need help completing the application form or require an alternate version or language, please contact your Community Services Coordinator (CSC), Engagement. If you do not know who your CSC is, please contact the Client Care Centre at 416-981-5500 and they will help you find the right person.
For questions about community gardens, contact the Tenant Engagement team by emailing TenantEngagement@torontohousing.ca.
Community Gardening Agreement
Only complete and sign this agreement if:
1) You are a returning gardener and your reservation period has not expired, or
2) Your application has been reviewed and approved by your Engagement Community Services Coordinator (CSC)
If you are unsure whether you should complete the agreement, contact your CSC.
Community gardens around the city
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