Caravan Sites

The Caravan and Control of Development Act 1960 prohibits the use of land as a caravan site unless the occupier holds a site licence issued by the local authority.
There are some exceptions: 
  • A caravan sited with the curtilage of a dwelling and its use is incidental to the dwelling. This means it cannot be occupied separately.
  • A single caravan sited for not more than two consecutive nights for a maximum of 28 days in any 12 months.
  • Up to three caravans on a site of not less than five acres for a maximum of 28 days in any 12 months.
  • Sites occupied by exempted organisations such as the Caravan Club.
  • Sites of up to 5 caravans certified by an exempt organisation and which are for members only.
  • Sites occupied by the local authority. These are usually gypsy sites.
  • Sites for temporary and special purposes such as caravan rallies, agricultural and forestry workers, building and engineering sites and travelling salesmen.
  • A site for tents only can be used for a maximum of 28 days in any 12 months.                     
Licence Conditions
Licences have conditions which include: 
  • The type of caravan, e.g. residential, static holiday or touring.
  • The permitted density (the number per acre/hectare) and the spacing between caravans.
  • Water supply and drainage; lavatory and washing facilities.
  • Fire precautions and electrical installations.                     
Current Caravan Site Occupiers should have a licence already but should check that the licence holder’s name, site name and address is correct and up to date. The site occupier should also check that the licence corresponds with the planning permission. If not the licence should be sent to us for re-issue. 
New Caravan Site Occupiers should transfer the existing licence. The law requires us to give consent for the transfer. The new site occupier should send us the licence with a request for transfer and we will either endorse or re-issue it. 
Potential Site Occupiers should check that all the land used for siting caravans has planning permission and that the details correspond with the site licence. Planning permission must be obtained if it is proposed to change the use of the land to a permanent caravan site before a licence can be issued. 
Apply for a Caravan Site Licence
Applications can be made on line on the Council’s website
Fees

No fee is payable

Public Register

The public register of existing licences/consents/permits/registrations can be viewed on the Council’s website



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Page last updated on: 21/08/2009