Can I Put a Touring Caravan on My Land?

Nov 14, 2025

Thinking of popping a touring caravan on your land for weekend getaways? Short answer: yes—but only if you follow the rules! From planning permission to where you can park (and where you can’t), we’ll unravel the do’s, don’ts, and even touch on Caravan Awnings along the way.

The Core Rule: When is Planning Permission Required? (UK Law)

Putting a touring caravan on your land can seem appealing for lots of reasons. It might be for personal use, extra income, or simply convenience. But before setting up camp, it’s vital to understand the legal side. Knowing the rules and regulations helps you avoid unnecessary trouble. It also ensures your plans match local land-use and environmental requirements.

Grey and black inflatable caravan awning with one open panel attached to a white caravan on a grassy field surrounded by trees.

The Fundamental Constraint: Change of Land Use

The main legal question is whether placing your caravan leads to a material change of use of the land. “Material Change of Use” (When the caravan becomes a separate dwelling)

If your caravan effectively becomes a permanent or independent dwelling, this usually counts as a material change of use. That means planning permission is required.
Using a caravan as a main home needs full residential approval and compliance with housing standards.

The Role of the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960

This Act outlines how caravans may be used on private land.
It distinguishes between touring caravans, which are temporary, and static caravans, which are permanent.
Even if you own the land, you must still comply with local development and environmental rules.

Maximum Dimensions (Legal limit for a vehicle to be classed as a caravan: 20m x 6.8m)

Under UK law, a caravan must not exceed 20 metres in length or 6.8 metres in width to be legally classed as a caravan.
Anything beyond this may be treated as a structure or building and will fall under full planning control.

Exception 1: The Incidental Use Rule (In Your Garden/Driveway)

If your caravan is placed within your home’s grounds, you may not need planning permission — but only under certain conditions.

Defining “Within the Curtilage” (The garden or driveway of a main dwelling)

When a caravan sits within the curtilage of your property (such as your garden or driveway), it is generally acceptable without planning permission. This is allowed provided the caravan remains part of your household’s normal use.

The “Incidental to Enjoyment” Test (The caravan must be an extension of the house)

The caravan must serve a purpose incidental to the enjoyment of the house. For instance, it could be used as a guest space, temporary office, or for storage. It must not, however, become an independent residence.

The Prohibition on Separate Dwellings (It cannot be rented out or used full-time)

If your caravan is rented out or lived in full-time, it becomes a separate dwelling. In this case, full planning permission is needed.

Family setting up surfboards beside a white caravan with an awning room on a sunny coastal campsite with bikes and outdoor chairs.

Exception and Duration Limits: The 28-Day Rule

Many landowners ask, “Can I have touring caravans on my land without planning permission?” The answer depends mainly on how long the caravan stays and how it’s used.

Exception 2: The Permitted Development (28-Day Rule)

The “28 Days per Year” Limit

You can usually keep a touring caravan on undeveloped land for up to 28 days per year without needing planning permission. This is only valid if it’s for temporary or recreational use and doesn’t permanently alter the land.

The 5-Acre Rule

If your plot measures 5 acres or more, you can site up to three caravans for 28 days or less without full planning consent. This applies mainly to private or seasonal recreational use.

Legal Temporary Uses

Temporary use may include accommodation for seasonal workers, construction staff, or travelling showmen. These cases are specifically recognised under the Caravan Sites Act.

The Importance of a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC)

What an LDC Confirms

A Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) is a formal document from your Local Planning Authority confirming your caravan use is lawful. It offers protection from enforcement action.

Why Applying for an LDC is Recommended

Applying for an LDC gives peace of mind and proof of compliance. It’s a smart move that ensures you’re operating within the law — avoiding any unpleasant surprises later.

Practical and Long-Term Implications of Siting a Caravan

Even when you don’t need permission, there are long-term factors to keep in mind.
These practicalities often determine whether your setup remains lawful.

Utilities, Council Tax, and Insurance

Council Tax Risk

If your caravan is viewed as a permanent dwelling, you might become liable for Council Tax. This is something many owners overlook until the bill arrives.

Water and Waste Management

Setting up permanent utility connections — such as water, gas, or waste disposal — often counts as a change of use. Always check with your local authority before connecting services.

Insurance Disclosure

Touring caravan insurance policies often require you to notify your insurer if your caravan stays in one place long-term. Failing to do so could affect your coverage or future claims.

Grey and black caravan awning with zipped panels attached to a white caravan on a white background.

Restrictive Covenants and Local Authority Checks

Checking Title Deeds

Your title deeds may contain restrictive covenants that prevent keeping caravans on your land. These legal clauses apply even if planning permission would normally allow it.

Importance of Consulting the Local Council

Rules vary from one area to another. Always consult your local council before placing a caravan to avoid fines or enforcement issues.

Other content you might like:

Phil McEleney

Get to know me

Started CamperNation to make buying caravan and glamping gear feel simple, honest, and stress-free. Now helps customers daily with awnings, power solutions and outdoor setups. Usually found talking canvas, campsites, and why the kettle is the most important piece of kit.

Back to Caravan Blog