1. Mandate
The Alderney Landing Market is dedicated to supporting local producers, artisans, and food vendors by providing a dynamic venue for commerce and community engagement. The market serves as a platform for vendors to showcase high-quality, locally made goods while fostering a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
In addition to supporting local businesses, the Alderney Landing Market’s mission includes celebrating culture and diversity by providing space and support for cultural events, as well as supporting local fundraising efforts for community groups and charities.
2. Roles & Responsibilities
2.1 Market Governance
The market is overseen by a Market Manager, responsible for:
- Vendor coordination
- Public relations
- Rule enforcement
- Ensuring smooth market operations
2.2 Vendors
Vendors are expected to:
- Maintain high product quality
- Follow all regulations
- Contribute positively to the market environment
- Keep their space clean
- Submit applications and cancellations at least 48 hours before the market starts
- Process vendor fee payments through Marketwurks
3. Definitions
- Vendor – Any individual or business approved to sell at the market
- Primary Producer – A vendor who grows or harvests raw materials for sale
- Food Producer – A vendor who prepares food products, using local ingredients when possible
- Artisan – A vendor who creates handmade, skillfully crafted items
4. Location, Hours & Season of Operation
Location: Alderney Landing, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, 2 Ochterloney Street
Market Days & Hours:
- Saturday Farmers’ Market: 8 AM – 1 PM
- Sunday Artisan Market: 11 AM – 3 PM
- Wednesday Market: 12 PM – 6 PM
Season: Year-round operation, with seasonal variations in vendor offerings.
5. Vendor Application & Selection Process
- Vendors must apply at the beginning of each season through Marketwurks.
- Applications are reviewed based on product quality, uniqueness, and alignment with market goals.
- Priority is given to local primary producers, followed by food vendors and artisans.
6. Vendor Code of Conduct
To foster a spirit of community at the market, all vendors are expected to conduct themselves in a professional and ethical manner always during market hours. Gossip, rude, abusive or disruptive conduct is not permitted. Conduct that is materially and seriously prejudicial to the reputation or operation of the market is prohibited. Discrimination in any form will not be tolerated. Alderney Landing is well known as an upbeat, friendly, warm inclusive inviting facility and all staff, vendors, and permanent retailors emulate the atmosphere.
- 75% of all products sold must be made, baked, or grown by the vendor.
- The remaining 25% may include complementary products.
- Handmade products must be skillfully crafted by hand, with components altered to create a new product.
- All products must be listed in the application form.
- The Market Manager will assess uncategorized items on a case-by-case basis.
6.1 Other Production Rules
- Vendors may sell up to 25% of products from other local producers if:
* The product is grown or produced in Nova Scotia
* It is approved by the Market Manager to fill a market gap
* The vendor displays signage identifying the product’s origin
* The additional product relates to the vendor’s main offerings
Priority access is given to primary producers. Vendor location depends on space availability.
7. Vendor Requirements
- Email is the primary form of communication. Vendors must keep their contact information updated via the vendor profile portal (Vendor Portal Link).
- Vendors must keep receipts for ingredients/materials and provide them upon request.
- Vendors must comply with all applicable federal, provincial, and municipal regulations, including:
* Product labeling
* Organic product certification
* Animal welfare regulations
* Food safety standards
* Health & cosmetics laws
* Liquor laws
7.1 Alcohol Vendors
- Alcohol vendors must never leave their table unattended.
- Vendors must follow all Nova Scotia Alcohol, Gaming, Tobacco & Firearms regulations.
7.2 Environmental Considerations
- Vendors should use recyclable materials whenever possible.
- Styrofoam containers are discouraged.
8. Cancellations & Date Changes
- Vendors must give the Market Manager at least 48 hours’ notice for cancellations.
- Cancellation Deadlines:
* Saturday Market: Notify by Thursday 8 AM
* Sunday Market: Notify by Friday 9 AM
❗ If a vendor fails to provide notice, they will be moved to the bottom of the priority list and must pay for the missed week before being eligible for a new table.
9. Market Fees
(A clear payment process is to be finalized.)
- Vendors must pay fees on time.
- Fees vary based on table quantity and additional services.
10. Vending Spaces
- Spaces are assigned by the Market Manager.
- Vendors must keep their spaces clean and safe.
- Subletting or transferring spaces is not allowed.
- Preferred vendor spots are not guaranteed.
11. Setup & Tear Down
- Vendors must be set up before the market opens. (Arrive at least 15 minutes before opening.)
- Vendors cannot leave before market closing unless they sellout their products.
- Market-provided tables must be used appropriately.
- Late arrivals may lose their space for the day. If something happened to delay your arrival you should notify the market manager before the market start to avoid losing your table.
12. Parking
- Vendors must park in designated areas to leave prime spots for customers.
13. Health & Safety
- Vendors handling food must comply with Canadian health regulations (Health & Safety Guidelines Link).
- The Market reserves the right to inspect food vendors.
- Vendors must maintain high hygiene standards and safe workspaces.
14. Bullying & Harassment Policy
❗Harassment, discrimination, and disruptive behaviour will not be tolerated.
- Violations may result in warnings, suspension, or removal from the market.
- The market promotes cultural inclusivity and a welcoming environment for all.
15. Communication & Social Media
- Vendors must provide an active email for communication.
- Social media mentions of the market must be respectful.
- Complaints should be reported to management, not shared publicly or with other vendors.
16. General Market Policies
- No soliciting or political/religious promotions.
- Smoking and vaping are prohibited in the market area.
- Service animals are allowed, but pets are not permitted.
- The market reserves the right to address conflicts, injuries, and security issues as needed.
17. Complaint & Conflict Resolution
- Vendors should attempt to resolve issues directly when possible.
- If unresolved, concerns should be reported to the Market Manager.
- Progressive disciplinary action will be taken for rule violations.
Thank You!
The Alderney Landing Farmers’ Market values your participation and cooperation. We look forward to working together to create a thriving and inclusive market!
For inquiries, contact: [email protected]
Alderney Landing Market, Dartmouth, NS