By: Jules Dervaes

While these 10 factors make up the “ideal” urban homestead, it should be understood that individual circumstances vary greatly and that many of these factors take years to implement fully. Therefore, any urban homestead SHOULD be a work in progress.

The current urban homesteading movement is a positive trend in American society. Within certain parameters, it has the potential to revitalize families and, thus, towns in our long tradition of self-sufficiency and independence. Homesteading in the city requires responsibility to one’s neighbors and fellow citizens. When it is undertaken with such a foundation, this way of life yields rich rewards of experiencing the rhythms of nature and the wonders of animal life.

1. Grow your own FOOD on your city lot.
More than 50% of diet, organically, on an urban lot (approx. less than half an acre*) with visually appealing landscaping. *Depends on square footage of house, location, and climate zone.

2. Use alternative ENERGY sources.
E.g., solar, wind, in conjunction with energy efficiency and conservation measures to reduce usage.

3. Use alternative FUELS & TRANSPORTATION.
E.g., bio-fuels and/or alternative methods of transportation (bicycle, walk, public).

4. Keep farm ANIMALS for manure and food.
Practice animal husbandry.

5. Practice WASTE REDUCTION.
Use it up, wear it out, make it do, do without, compost it, re-purpose it.

6. Reclaim GREYWATER and collect RAINWATER.
Practice water conservation and recovery.

7. Live SIMPLY.
…in the manner of past eras. Develop back-to-basics homemaking skills, including food preservation and preparation.

8. Do the work YOURSELF.
Learn to do home and vehicle maintenance, repairs and basic construction.

9. Work at HOME.
Earn a living from the land or hand work done at home. Develop a homebased economy.

10. Be a good NEIGHBOR.
Be conscious and considerate of your surroundings – ask yourself, “Would I want to live next to me?” Offer a helping hand for free. Urban homesteading is a community-based way of life, not a business opportunity. Be a neighbor, not a business person.

Copyright Dervaes Institute. Please do not reprint without permission or proper acknowledgment.