If you wish to change the use of land to a permanent caravan site you must have planning permission before a licence can be issued.
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 council. There are some exemptions:-
- a caravan sited within the grounds of a dwelling and its use is incidental to the use of the dwelling. This means that it can not 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 the local authority. These are usually Traveller sites.
- sites for temporary and special purposes such as caravan rallies, agricultural and forestry workers, building and engineering sites and travelling showmen.
- a site for tents can only be used for a maximum of 28 days in any 12 months.
Licence Conditions
Note: The licence conditions for Caravan Sites in the District of Wakefield are in line with the Model Standards 2008 for Caravan Sites in England.
Licences have conditions which include:
- the type of caravan site e.g. residential, seasonal 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
Applying for a licence
Apply online via the UK Welcomes website:
Apply by post or in person
- see 'Downloads' for a hard copy application form
The form must be accompanied by a site plan of 1:500 scale showing the layout of roads, caravans and facilities.
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 by the end of the target completion period
Fees
There is no fee for this application.
Failed Application Redress
You are advised to take up any issue with the council first.
If a licence holder is refused an application to alter a condition they may appeal to the local Magistrates' court. The appeal must be made within 28 days of the written notification of the refusal and a notice of appeal must be served on the local district council.
Licence Holder Redress
You are advised to take up any issue with the council first.
If a licence holder wishes to appeal against a condition attached to a licence they may appeal to the local Magistrates' Court or, in Scotland. The appeal must be made within 28 days of the licence being issued.
The local district council may alter conditions at any time but must give licence holders the opportunity to make representations about the proposed changes. If a licence holder disagrees with the alterations they may appeal to the local Magistrates' court. The appeal must be made within 28 days of the written notification of the alteration and a notice of appeal must be served on the local district council.
Consumer Complaint
We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the trader by you - preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked, if you are located in the UK, Consumer Direct will give you advice. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre.
Trade Associations
Please contact us if you require further information.
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