Why do sites need a licence?
The Caravan Sites 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.
Do I need to register?
If you want to site a caravan on land you need a licence-serif unless one of the following exceptions applies:
- Incidental use within the curtilage of a dwelling house;
- Single caravan used by a person for not more than two nights and 28 days in 12 months;
- Holdings of five acres or more, if not more than 28 days in 12 months, and a maximum of three caravans at any time;
- Sites occupied and supervised by
exempted organisations;
- Sites approved by exempted organisations for up to five caravans;
- Meetings organised by exempted organisations;
- Agricultural and forestry workers;
- Building and engineering sites;
- Travelling showmen;
- Sites operated and owned by a local council, county councils or regional councils.
A caravan is any structure designed or adapted for human habitation which is capable of being moved from one place to another (whether by being towed, or by being transported on a motor vehicle or trailer) and any motor vehicle so designed or adapted, but not railway rolling stock which is for the time being on rails forming part of a railway system, or a tent.
What legislation applies?
The Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960
What are the conditions of registration?
Licences are issued with 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
How will my application be determined?
Your application will be determined taking into account the Government's Model Standards
How much will it cost?
There is no charge for this licence.
How do I apply?
By completing and submitting the Application Form or by Applying Online:
Apply for a caravan and camping site licence
Apply to change a caravan and camping site licence
Do I need to provide further information or evidence?
A layout plan of the site to a scale of not less than 1/500 should be attached showing the boundaries of the site, the positions of caravans standings, roads and footpaths, toilet blocks, stores and other buildings, foul and surface water drainage, water supply, recreation spaces and waste disposal facilities.
How long will it take you to process my registration? We will acknowledge your application within 7 working days and process your application within 2 months.
Will tacit consent apply?
Yes. This means that you will be able to act as though your application is granted if you have not heard from the local authority within 2 months.
If my registration is refused, how do I appeal?
Please raise any concerns with the Council. However an applicant who is refused a licence or wishes to appeal against the conditions can appeal to their local Magistrates' court within 28 days.
What if I have a complaint or concern?
Please contact the Housing Standards Team.
Can I view a public register of notifications online
Yes - Register of Caravan Site Licences
If you require any further information please contact:
Housing Standards Team
Tel: 01283 508680
Email: housing@eaststaffsbc.gov.uk