Farm Stand Etiquette: How to Be a Kind and Considerate Visitor

Exploring BC’s roadside farm stands is one of life’s simple pleasures. But many of these spots are located on or near private property, often unstaffed, and run on trust. That’s part of what makes them so special—and why it’s important to visit with care and respect.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned stand-hopper, here are some easy ways to be a thoughtful guest:

1. Park Safely and Considerately

  • Pull fully off the road so you’re not blocking traffic.
  • Never stop on blind curves or busy stretches—safety first!
  • Don’t block driveways, gates, or access points.

2. Respect the Quiet of Rural Life

  • Turn your car music down—or off—especially in quiet country areas.
  • Keep conversations respectful and volume low.
  • Avoid honking, yelling, or revving your engine near homes or animals.

3. Stay Within the Farm Stand Area

  • Don’t wander into fields, barns, or homes—stay where the stand is.
  • Never trespass on private property, even if it looks open or interesting.
  • Don’t knock on the door of the owner’s home- most stands are self-serve, and farmers value their privacy. If the stand is empty or sold out, it’s best to come back another time.
  • Avoid taking photos of the owners, their children, or their address- always ask permission before photographing anything beyond the stand itself.
  • Follow any signs or instructions posted at the stand.

4. Be Gentle Around Animals & Nature

  • Don’t touch, feed, or harass farm animals or wildlife.
  • Respect the space and safety of animals and children who may be nearby.
  • Leave no trace—pack out your garbage (no littering), don’t pick flowers unless invited, and stay on paths.

5. Cash is King (and Coins are Queen)

  • Most stands run on the honour system—no staff, just a jar or box.
  • Bring small bills and change: $1, $2 coins, quarters, and $5s are ideal.
  • Don’t rely on change being available—there’s often no float or way to make change.
  • If you don’t have exact change, it’s always better to overpay a little- think of it as a tip or a thank-you to the farmer’s hard work.
  • It’s never ok to short pay. If you don’t have enough, leave the goods and come back another time with the right amount.

6. Respect the Stand’s Schedule

  • Many stands aren’t open every day—check the App for each vendor’s up-to-date hours.
  • Avoid early-morning or late-night visits. Think of 9am to 6pm as a safe window.
  • If the stand looks closed or empty, it probably is—come back another time.

7. Be a Good Guest

  • Don’t haggle or take more than you paid for.
  • Leave notes or kind words—it means a lot to farmers!
  • Share your finds (and tag the stand if known!) on our App or social media to support them—please just be mindful of overexposing small locations if they aren’t equipped for high traffic.

Thank you for helping keep BC’s farm stand culture thriving, respectful, and joyful for everyone.

Your care helps preserve a beautiful part of our local food system—and the trust that makes it work.