planning-applications.co.uk

 

 PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT

HOME | PDMAIN

CARAVAN SITES

 [GPDO PART5]

Planning permission is not required for:-

 the use of land (excluding buildings) as a caravan site in the specific instances set out in paragraphs 2 -10* of Schedule 1 to the Caravan Sites & Control of Development Act 1960 and subject to the limitations set out therein.

 development which is required by the conditions laid down in a Site Licence issued and in force under the terms of the 1960 Act.

* Note: Paragraph 10: Travelling Showmen, excludes the use of land for winter quarters.

This is a specialist area of planning law in which Ian Butter has a particular expertise.

 

CARAVANS IN GARDENS [1960 Act Schedule 1 paragraph 1]

Generally you may use a 'caravan' within the curtilage of a dwelling, where that use is ancillary to the main use of the house as a residential dwelling. The caravan must not become a separate habitable unit; ie in wholly separate occupation with facilities that make it self-reliant.

Essentially you can use a caravan as extra bedroom space or other ancillary purposes, but you should exercise extreme care in developing any more permanent usage of the caravan.

Storage of touring caravans (particularly on driveways to the front of houses) may also be subject to local bylaws, or planning limitations through conditions. New housing estates in particular may limit your rights in this respect. (Boat storage may be similarly treated).

Always check first with your local planning department.