Bill > H0537

This bill, effective July 1, 2026, aims to protect the right of individuals to grow vegetable gardens by prohibiting landlords and common interest communities from unreasonably restricting their installation and use. A "vegetable garden" is defined as a plot for cultivating plants for personal use or donation, excluding cannabis or illegal substances, and not subject to required agricultural practices. For common interest communities, existing rules that prohibit or unreasonably restrict vegetable gardens in areas designated for a unit owner's exclusive use are declared void and unenforceable, though associations can enact reasonable rules regarding maintenance, appearance, and the use of common areas, and can prohibit pesticides. If approval is needed for a garden, it must be processed like other architectural modifications and is automatically approved if not denied in writing within 60 days. Unit owners are responsible for garden costs, any damage caused, and disclosing the garden to future buyers. This provision does not apply to condominiums. For tenants, landlords must permit vegetable gardens in portable containers in the tenant's private area and can authorize other garden installations, but can impose reasonable restrictions on maintenance, placement, and the use of pesticides, and can require tenants to pay for excess utility costs.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.537