Do You Always Need Planning permission for Glamping?
 
Not always, but in many cases, yes. Whether or not you need planning permission depends on the type of structures you’re using, how long it will be in place, what facilities are installed, and the nature of the land. Below is a breakdown to help you understand when planning permission is necessary.

Most Glamping units are usually considered caravans in planning terms, especially if they can be moved. However, if they are fixed, connected to services, or installed for long periods, they may be classified as permanent structures and will need planning permission. If the intention is of permanence, then this usually trumps most other considerations.

What counts as a Glamping Structure?

• Movable: Tents, yurts, pods, shepherd’s huts, floating pods.
• Fixed: Structures with foundations, decking, permanent utility connections, or built in trees.

 

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When you might not need Planning Permission:
There are specific permitted development rights that allow limited use of land for glamping without express permission.

Temporary Use of Land
Under the General Permitted Development order (GPDO 2015):

• Class B: You can use land for glamping or similar activities for up to 28 days per year.
• Class BC: You can operate up to 50 temporary pitches for 60 days per year, but only for recreational camping.

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Important: The days of "use" includes any time when glamping structures or associated items (bins, showers, etc.) are left on site, they must be removed when not in use to avoid exceeding time limits. This point is often overlooked for example where toilet blocks, hardstanding areas, or utility hook-ups are normally required to be in place throughout the whole year.
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Some structures that qualify as caravans can be used under GPDO 2015:

• Class A: Use of Land for caravans.
• Class B: Development on licensed caravan sites.
• Class C: Use by certain recreational organisations.

When is Planning Permission needed for Glamping?

You will need planning permission if:

• Glamping units are permanently sited or fixed to the ground.
• Platforms, decking concrete pads, or other foundations are installed.
• You plan to connect to utilities (electricity, drainage, water).
• The land use is effectively changing from agricultural woodland or tourism.
• You are installing structures in trees, floating structures, or buildings like shower/toilet blocks.
• A structure is used as someone’s primary residence.
• You want to store glamping structures on-site out of season.
• You’re creating new road access or tracks to the site.

 
Do you also need a License for Glampin?

Yes – if you’re operating beyond the permitted development limits, or plan to run a full glamping site, you’ll also need a Caravan and Camping Site Licence from your local authority.
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You’ll need a license if:

• You’re using land for tent camping more than 42 consecutive days or more than 60 days in 12 months.
• You’re offering accommodation in caravans, pods, huts, or similar.
• The site hosts mixed accommodation types (tents and glamping units together0.

 
Planning Process Overview:

1. Check if planning permission is required (see above)
2. Apply to your local planning authority with the correct forms and fee.
3. Include all supporting documentation (site layout, access details, waste disposal, etc.).
4. Expect a decision within 8 weeks, which includes a public consultation period.
5. If approved, conditions like seasonal use or occupancy limits may apply (these can also be appealed if considered unreasonable).
6. If refused, you can appeal or revise and resubmit. 

If you’re looking to move forward with your glamping project, we can offer guidance through the planning process.

Contact Us  to discuss your project or ideas