Is it illegal to store a caravan without planning permission?
YOU may head to a caravan for your summer holiday or you might live in one all year round.
It’s important to know the rules whether you can store a caravan without planning permission or if you’re going to receive a fine. Here’s what we know.
Is it illegal to store a caravan without planning permission?
If your caravan is on agricultural land then you can store it for 28 days without permission.
You can also store the caravan on your own land without permission.
If the location of the caravan is considered not to be within the residential curtilage of the dwelling then it will require planning permission.
You will need to make sure that the caravan in question meets the legal definition of a mobile home in the Caravan Act.
This means that the structure must be physically capable of being moved from one place to another by road and that the twin unit must be no more than 20metres long, 6.8metres wide and the living accommodation no more than 3.096metres high.
It is best to check with your local planning authority to determine the specific laws and regulations in your area.
You could be subject to additional restrictions if you live in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or conservation area.
However, if your caravan is mobile, you can generally park it on your property, just as long as it isn’t causing any obstruction and you have parked responsibly.
Some UK residences may contain clauses in their deeds prohibiting caravans from being parked in the garden or on the driveway.
This means it is a good idea to check your property deed before assuming you can park in either.
The GoCompare website explains: “You and your family are free to use your caravan as an extension of your home, for example as an extra bedroom or office, without applying for planning permission.
“If the caravan is effectively a separate home, like you’re renting it out to someone else, then you might need to apply for planning permission to do this legally.”
How much can you be fined for storing a caravan without planning permission?
To find out how much you will be fined for not getting planning permission for your caravan, you will need to contact your local authority.
However, there are several other things you may be fined for when it comes to having a caravan – static or mobile.
You need to comply with laws when it comes to:
- Caravan ownership, insurance, and maintenance
- Towing
- Parking and storage
If you do not follow safety measures you can get a fine of up to £2,500, a driving ban, and three penalty points.
How to apply for planning permission for a caravan
You can apply for planning permission by contacting your local authority.
You can visit their website, call or pop into your townhall.
Contact your local council’s planning department to discuss the matter and determine what sort of planning application is required.
Caravan driving laws
Check out our array of handy guides and explainers filled with caravan advice and laws:
- Can I be fined for towing a caravan on a motorway?
- Can you tow a caravan with an electric car?
- How to complain about your neighbour’s caravan
- Are passengers allowed to ride in a caravan that is being towed?
- Does my caravan need an MOT?
- Can I be fined for towing a caravan or trailer without taking a test?
- Can I be fined for having inadequate caravan towing equipment?
- Can I be fined for mismatched number plates on my caravan?