Many people dream of owning a piece of rural land where they can grow their own food, keep a few animals, and live a more self-sufficient lifestyle. This dream often leads them to explore the idea of a smallholding. But what exactly qualifies as a smallholding? The definition can vary slightly by country or region, but in general, it refers to a small-scale agricultural property that is more than a garden but less than a commercial farm. A smallholding is typically used for growing crops, raising livestock, or a combination of both, mainly for the owner’s personal use with some occasional sale of surplus.
Definition and Land Size
How Big Is a Smallholding?
The most common characteristic used to define a smallholding is land size. While there is no universal measurement, most smallholdings are between 0.5 to 50 acres in size. In the UK, for example, anything under 50 acres is often considered a smallholding. In the United States or Australia, the land may be larger but still fall into this category if it is not operated as a full-scale commercial farm.
Unlike hobby gardens or backyard plots, a smallholding usually includes enough space for:
- Vegetable plots and orchards
- Livestock such as chickens, goats, pigs, or sheep
- Storage buildings or sheds
- Polytunnels or greenhouses
- Water sources such as wells or ponds
Smallholdings are often managed by individuals, couples, or families rather than large farming businesses or corporations.
Purpose and Use
Self-Sufficiency Goals
One of the key features of a smallholding is its focus on self-reliance. Owners usually grow food for their household and may keep animals for eggs, milk, or meat. While profit is not the main objective, smallholders often produce a surplus that they can sell locally or trade within their community.
Not a Commercial Farm
A smallholding differs from a full-fledged commercial farm primarily in scale and intent. Commercial farms operate with the goal of producing goods for mass distribution, employing laborers, and using industrial equipment. Smallholdings are more modest and usually managed by the landowner with occasional help from family or local volunteers.
Common Features of a Smallholding
Though every smallholding is unique, many share similar structures and activities. Here are some common elements that often qualify a property as a smallholding:
Mixed Farming Activities
- Growing fruits, vegetables, herbs, and grains
- Raising poultry, rabbits, goats, or other livestock
- Using organic or permaculture techniques
- Producing honey, eggs, or dairy products
Hands-On Management
Smallholdings are typically run by the owners themselves. There is a hands-on approach to planting, feeding, fencing, composting, and maintenance. This type of management helps reduce costs and fosters a deeper connection to the land and animals.
Minimal or No Hired Labor
Because of the scale, most smallholdings do not require a large workforce. In many cases, the work is done by family members or through work-trade agreements with volunteers and neighbors.
Legal and Planning Considerations
Planning Permissions
Depending on the country or municipality, certain legal conditions may apply. Owners may need to obtain planning permission to build agricultural structures like barns or polytunnels. In some areas, there are restrictions on land use, animal keeping, or the sale of produce.
Tax and Zoning Laws
Owning a smallholding may affect your taxes and local zoning designations. In some places, having agricultural land can offer property tax benefits, while in others, it may limit your ability to build or reside full-time. Always check local laws before buying or converting a property into a smallholding.
Types of Smallholdings
Smallholdings come in many shapes and sizes. Some focus on one type of product, while others diversify to meet different goals. Here are a few types of smallholdings:
Crop-Focused Smallholding
These smallholdings prioritize growing vegetables, herbs, and fruit trees. They may use organic methods, raised beds, and season extension techniques. Some even integrate small-scale agroforestry or vertical farming systems.
Livestock-Focused Smallholding
With more space and grazing availability, some smallholdings specialize in animals. This may include pasture rotation systems, free-range poultry, or heritage breed conservation. Animal waste is often composted to improve soil fertility.
Mixed-Use Smallholding
Most smallholdings are a combination of plant and animal production. This diversified model allows the land to be used efficiently and supports a more stable year-round food supply. It also helps build resilience against pests, weather, or crop failure.
Who Typically Owns a Smallholding?
New Farmers and Homesteaders
People who are new to agriculture or looking for a lifestyle change are often drawn to smallholdings. They may be former city dwellers, retirees, or young families who want to raise their children in a rural setting.
Part-Time Farmers
Some owners keep other jobs and manage their smallholding during evenings or weekends. This part-time model is becoming more common as more people seek self-sufficiency without giving up their urban incomes entirely.
Community and Educational Groups
Smallholdings are sometimes run by cooperatives, schools, or nonprofit organizations. These community farms may host workshops, apprenticeships, or local food programs while providing fresh produce and hands-on agricultural education.
Challenges of Owning a Smallholding
While owning a smallholding can be deeply rewarding, it also comes with challenges. Some of the most common include:
- Time-intensive labor and seasonal work
- Initial costs for tools, fencing, and infrastructure
- Limited income or financial return
- Weather-related risks
- Regulatory hurdles and land-use laws
Despite these issues, many smallholders say the lifestyle benefits, food independence, and connection to nature outweigh the difficulties.
Understanding What Qualifies as a Smallholding
A smallholding is defined not just by the size of land but by how the land is used. It’s a property typically under 50 acres that supports small-scale, self-reliant agricultural activities often run by individuals or families rather than commercial enterprises. Whether used to grow food, raise animals, or foster community education, smallholdings reflect a growing desire for sustainable, hands-on living. As food systems evolve and more people seek alternative lifestyles, smallholdings are likely to become even more relevant and valued around the world.