Seasonal Pitch Rules: A Comprehensive Guide

Nov 14, 2025

Thinking of parking up for the season? In short, seasonal pitch rules are the do’s and don’ts of long-term camping in the UK — from site licences to eco-friendly habits. Whether you’re eyeing Seasonal Awnings or luxury pitches, this guide spills the secrets to hassle-free, rule-smart camping fun!

The Non-Negotiables: Legal and Occupancy Rules for Seasonal Pitches

Strict Limits on Personal Occupancy

The Anti-Residential Rule: Why You Must Have a Permanent Home Address

Seasonal pitches are meant for holidays, not for permanent living.
Every camper must have a main home address elsewhere.
This keeps your stay compliant with local licensing laws and planning permissions.
It also ensures the park doesn’t become a residential site, which can breach regulations.

Grey caravan awning attached to a white caravan on a white background.

Maximum Consecutive Stay Limits (Commonly 21 or 28 Nights)

Most parks limit how long you can stay in one go.
Commonly, that’s 21 or 28 nights.
These limits help maintain the park’s holiday-only status and make space for other visitors.
Always check your site’s rules before planning a long stay.

Mandatory Vacation Periods (How long you must leave the site before returning)

Many sites ask you to vacate for a few days or weeks before returning.
This prevents continuous occupancy and ensures fair use of pitches.
Leaving for a set time also allows park staff to maintain and inspect facilities safely.

Essential Insurance and Safety Regulations

Requirement for Public Liability Insurance (Third-Party Cover)

All seasonal pitch holders must hold public liability insurance.
This protects you and others in the event of an accident or damage caused by your caravan or motorhome.
Some parks will require proof of insurance before confirming your booking.
It’s always best to double-check your policy covers third-party claims.

Mandatory Security Devices (Hitch Locks, Wheel Clamps, or Alarms)

Security is taken seriously on UK caravan parks.
You’ll often need to use hitch locks, wheel clamps, or alarms to protect your unit.
These devices reduce theft risks and are a standard requirement across many sites.

Fire Safety and Equipment Checks (Fire pits, BBQs, and Gas Storage)

Fire safety is essential.
Keep BBQs, fire pits, and gas bottles well away from caravans and awnings.
Regularly check fire extinguishers and smoke alarms.
These small actions make a big difference in preventing fire hazards.

Site Management and Pitch Maintenance Regulations

Rules Governing Pitch Alterations and Appearance

Limitations on Awnings and Decking (Size, Material, and Permanency)

Most parks allow Seasonal Awnings, but they must be temporary and well-maintained.
Use only approved materials and stay within the park’s size limits.
Avoid heavy or permanent structures that may breach regulations or spoil the site’s appearance.

Prohibitions on Erecting Permanent Structures (Sheds, Fences, or Solid Roofs)

Permanent additions such as sheds, fences, or solid roofs are not allowed.
These can affect site aesthetics and break local planning laws.
Pitches should remain flexible and easy to restore to their original state.

Site Tidy Policy: Maintaining a Clutter-Free and Neat Pitch

Every park enforces a tidy pitch policy.
Keep your area clean, clutter-free, and dispose of rubbish properly.
It helps maintain harmony with neighbours and protects the environment for everyone to enjoy.

Utilities and Caravan Movement Rules

Disconnecting Electricity When Unoccupied (Safety and Charge Rules)

When you’re not staying on-site, always disconnect your electricity.
This prevents electrical hazards and helps reduce unnecessary power costs.
It’s also a sign of respect for safety protocols set by the park.

Rules on Moving the Caravan (Must be Movable/Insured for Relocation)

Your caravan must remain movable and properly insured at all times.
Parks may request you to move it for maintenance or safety reasons.
Keeping it ready to tow ensures compliance with site and insurance rules.

Sewage and Waste Disposal Guidelines

Dispose of waste only at designated disposal points.
Avoid contaminating land or waterways.
Following proper sewage and waste procedures keeps the site hygienic and eco-friendly.

Social Rules: Visitors, Vehicles, and General Conduct

Visitor and Guest Policies

Mandatory Guest Registration and Visitor Fees

All visitors must register at reception upon arrival.
Some sites charge a small visitor fee to cover the use of facilities and insurance purposes.
This ensures the site knows who’s on the premises at all times.

Host Responsibility: Seasonal Camper Must Be Present for Guests

You must be present when hosting guests on your pitch.
Visitors aren’t allowed to stay alone without the main pitch holder present.
This keeps responsibility clear and prevents misuse of facilities.

Rules on Subletting or Renting the Caravan to Others (Almost universally prohibited)

Subletting your caravan or renting your pitch to others is almost always forbidden.
Seasonal pitches are for your personal leisure use only.
Breaching this rule could result in termination of your agreement.

Caravan awning on a green campsite with two people sitting outside surrounded by hedges and trees.

Vehicle and Noise Regulations

Vehicle Limits and Overflow Parking Requirements (Typically One Car per Pitch)

Most sites only allow one vehicle per pitch.
Extra cars are usually directed to overflow parking areas.
This keeps pathways clear and prevents overcrowding.

Site Speed Limits (Usually 5–10 MPH)

Speed limits within sites are low — typically 5–10 mph.
They’re there for safety, especially when children and pedestrians are around.
Stick to these limits at all times.

Noise Curfews and General Conduct Policies (Quiet Hours)

Respect quiet hours, often after 10 PM.
Avoid loud music or gatherings that could disturb others.
Being mindful of noise keeps the atmosphere peaceful for everyone.

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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.

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