Moveable Dwelling Site Licences (Tents)
Section 269 Public Health Act 1936 gives the Council powers to control the use of movable dwellings (i.e. tents) and the use of land as a site for this purpose. If the land is to be used for more than 28 days in total in any calendar year, planning permission must be obtained.
A site licence is required for any site which is used for more than 42 days consecutively or 60 days in total in any consecutive 12 months as a site for moveable dwellings.
You do not need a licence if the use of the tent or tents is for yourself or members of your household, or as seasonal accommodation for agricultural workers on your farm.
Caravan Site Licences
Under the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960, a Caravan Site licence is required to use land to station any caravan, motor home, camper van or mobile home, for the purposes of human habitation. Valid planning permission is required in order to obtain a site licence.
The Council may grant or refuse a licence allowing use of a site. If you are granted a licence, conditions will be attached to ensure safety and a basic level of amenities.
Sites with planning permission for both caravans and tents may be licensed as a single site under the Caravan and Control of Development Act 1960. In this case, in reference to the required standards, tents will be treated as touring units. However, if part of a site is used for tents, but does not have planning consent, it will need to be licensed separately under Section 269 of the Public Health Act 1936.
Further Information
For further information or to obtain an application form please contact the Licensing section on 01225 477531 or email licensing@bathnes.gov.uk.