Tampa is expanding its urban greenery with a new community garden, and the City of Tampa’s Parking Division is inviting residents to apply for a plot. According to the City of Tampa's announcement, applications for one of 41 free gardening beds will be accepted from Wednesday nxt week through November 5.
Located next to the Whiting Street Garage, the Parking Community Garden will feature 54 raised beds, each measuring 2 feet by 2 feet by 4 feet. Applicants may request up to two beds. Due to limited space, a lottery system will determine who receives plots, with selected participants notified in late November or early December. Planting season is expected to begin between February and March 2026.
The program aims to promote outdoor activity, sustainable gardening, and healthy living. Participants will be able to grow flowers, vegetables, and herbs while learning about sustainability practices such as composting and water reclamation.
Gardeners will have access from sunrise to sunset using a Bluetooth-enabled lock, and shared tools will be available on site. The City of Tampa has also outlined rules prohibiting the use of tobacco, illegal substances, and chemical pesticides or fertilizers to maintain an organic environment.
