Planning and Building Requirements

1. 
   

   • Do I need Building Regulations?

   • Building regulations do not apply only if the building does not contain any sleeping accommodation

   • Contact your local building control officer for more information or advice, they are usually very helpful especially if you get them on board.

     
     

Key Points to Consider:

• Application Process: Planning permission and building regulations approval are separate processes. Obtaining one does not automatically grant the other.

• Professional Advice: It’s advisable to seek professional advice from architects, surveyors, or planning consultants when considering a development project. They can guide you through the planning and building regulations processes.

• Changes and Updates: Both planning and building regulations can be subject to changes and updates, so it’s important to check with the relevant authorities for the most current information.

  
  

Always consult with the local planning authority and building control before starting any development work to ensure compliance with the latest regulations and requirements

If you plan to purchase a “pod” which is movable then you may be able to install it without planning permission on your site as a pod can officially be classed as a caravan. The legal definition of a caravan is:

“Any structure designed or adapted for human habitation which is capable of being moved from place to another (whether by being towed, or being transported on a motor vehicle or trailer) Section 20 (1) of the Caravan and Control of development Act 1960. For this to occur though you will need to have the correct camping and caravanning licences prior to this on your campsite.

If your pods are not mobile or you plan to install multiple camping pods on your site, then check with your local planning authority first. A series of interesting guidance notes from the Lake District National Park authority provides some additional information in how they approach for camping pods (although it is not a planning policy)

If you are planning on buying a camping “pod” to use as an extra addition to your home, such as garden office or studio then planning permission isn’t normally required. This is because the pod falls under the permitted development rights for the house and is incidental to the main property. Incidental has been defined to mean “subordinate to the enjoyment of the house for “residential purposes”. Permitted development offers home owners a whole variety of potential ways to make the best use of their extra space without planning.

This does not provide a green light on any sort of pod to be installed as there are conditions which govern the placement of the pod in relation to the house. For instance certain conditions mean that:

Your pod cannot have a total area of ore than 50% of the total area of land which surrounds your property.

The pod cannot be over 2.5m in height.

The pod cannot be allowed to block the light into neighbouring properties or obstruct nearby doors and windows.

If you are planning on constructing or purchasing a camping pod, or pod structure to use as a permanent dwelling then planning permission will need to be granted. For more information contact your local planning authority, as well as look through the information available on the https://www.planningportal.co.uk/