What can I do with a croft?

Crofting traditionally focuses on:

• Livestock rearing
• Arable crops
• Grass cropping

Traditional and low intensity management of the land supports species and habitats which makes the Highlands and Islands unique.

Exploring new uses

Using a croft for activities other than agriculture is known as diversification.

As part of their legal duties crofters must:

• Cultivate their croft, or
• Use it for something ‘purposeful’ that does not adversely affect
  • the croft
  • the public interest
  • the interests of the landlord or owner
  • the use of adjacent land

This requires written permission from your landlord. But, if they refuse permission, you can make an application to us for ‘another purposeful use’ 

Examples

• Fruit and veg boxes
• Meat sales direct from the croft
• Cafes and food trailers
• Food and drink production 
• Guest houses, self-catering accommodation, bed and breakfast
• Crafts using crofting products
  • wool and yarn
  • weaving and spinning
• Renewable energy 
• Pods, wigwams and campsites with access to crofting activities and experiences (known as agritourism)

If you are considering putting a structure, like a pod, on your croft, you should consult the planning department of the local authority in your area.