Pocket Farm Markets

What is a Pocket Farm Market?

A Pocket Farm Market is a small-scale pop-up farm market, used to sell agricultural products directly to consumers. Food producers temporarily gather at parking lot or other outdoor location and sell products to residents from a table or vehicle.

What types of items can be sold?

Items permitted for sale at Pocket Farm Markets include fresh locally grown fruits and vegetables, apiary products, trees and forest products, forages and sod crops, grains and seed crops, eggs, and local ornamental and greenhouse products, and other lower-risk value-added agricultural products (i.e. jams, canned goods) that are not capable of supporting the growth of disease- causing organisms or the production of toxins.

The sale of handicrafts and other non-consumable goods is not permitted.

See BC Centre for Disease Control’s guideline for a list of lower-risk agricultural products:

Steps for Starting a Pocket Farm Market

  • Gather a group of local food growers.
  • Familiarize yourself with operational requirements. Read the Pocket Farm Market regulations (below) and check the District of Saanich Zoning Bylaw.
  • Apply for an annual Saanich Business Licence. Only one business licence is required per Pocket Farm Market.
  • Decide on a location that is permitted through Saanich Zoning Bylaw:
    1. Private Property - Obtain permission from the property owner.
    2. Saanich Park - Apply for a District of Saanich Park Permit.
    3. Saanich Municipal Hall - Complete a Saanich Special Event Application.
    4. Recreation Facility - Book with the respective facility.

Where are Pocket Farm Markets permitted?

Pocket Farm Markets are permitted in a variety of ‘public’ zones (including most churches, community centres, schools, parks, offices, etc.), as well as the District of Saanich Municipal Hall. Check the District of Saanich Zoning Bylaw for permitted zones.

Other Regulations

  • The Pocket Farm Market operator must secure permission from the property owner prior to operating.
  • The site area of the Pocket Farm Market must be outdoors and must not exceed 184m2 (1991 ft2).
  • Mobile food vendors and live entertainment are prohibited at Pocket Farm Markets.
  • Pocket Farm Markets must not operate on any given lot more than twice weekly.
  • The Pocket Farm Market must only operate from tables or vehicles.

Business Licence