Touring Caravan on Agricultural Land: What You Need to Know

Nov 14, 2025

Fancy parking your caravan awning on peaceful farmland, awning out and kettle on? You can—but only within the rules! The short answer: yes, you can place a touring caravan on agricultural land with limits. Want to know how many touring caravans you can have without planning permission? Read on!

The Core Rule: When is Planning Permission Required on Farmland?

Before setting up your touring caravan on agricultural land, it’s essential to know when planning permission is required. The UK government regulates the use of agricultural land for non-agricultural purposes, including caravan placement.

White caravan with a large grey awning featuring clear windows and curtains, shown on a transparent background.

The Fundamental Constraint: Change of Use

Agricultural Use Only

Agricultural land is primarily designated for farming activities. Placing a touring caravan or dwelling on it can count as a material change of use, since the land is no longer being used purely for agriculture. Without the proper permissions, this could lead to enforcement action or fines.

Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960

This is the key legislation that governs how and where caravans can be placed in the UK.
It outlines when a caravan may be stationed, for how long, and under what conditions planning permission or a site licence is required.

Distinction: Placing vs. Habitation

It’s also important to understand the difference between parking or storing a caravan and living in it. Simply storing a caravan on farmland might not need permission, but using it for accommodation—especially for long stays—usually does.

Exception 1: The "28-Day Rule" (Temporary Use)

Maximum 28 Days Per Year

The 28-day rule allows a touring caravan to be placed on agricultural land for up to 28 days in any calendar year without needing planning permission.
However, the caravan cannot be used as a permanent home, and the land must not be significantly altered to accommodate it.

The 5-Acre Rule

If you own five acres or more, you may keep up to three touring caravans under the 28-day exemption.
That said, local planning authorities may interpret this differently, so it’s best to confirm with your local council first.

Tents vs. Caravans

Tents and temporary camping setups often have slightly different permitted development rights.
While tents may fall under similar allowances, caravans have tighter restrictions due to waste, electricity and habitation concerns.

Legal Exemptions for Agricultural Use

Exception 2: Seasonal Agricultural Workers

Sometimes, caravans are allowed on farmland for short-term use by seasonal workers.

Defining "During a Particular Season"

This use must be temporary and directly linked to farming operations such as lambing or harvesting.
The caravan serves as short-term accommodation rather than a permanent home.

Requirement to Remove

Once the seasonal work ends, the caravan must be removed promptly to keep its exempt status. Leaving it in place outside that timeframe can result in enforcement action.

Close-up view of a caravan with a grey air awning and open panels, showing the interior seating area on a grassy field with trees in the background.

Planning for Permanent Agricultural Need

The "Essential Need" Test

For farmers seeking to live on-site permanently, councils apply an “essential need” test.
You’ll need to show that living on the land is crucial to the daily running of the farm, for example, to care for livestock or manage operations round the clock.

The Process of Applying for an Agricultural Dwelling

In such cases, temporary caravan use can evolve into an application for a permanent agricultural dwelling.
This process requires proof of operational necessity, access, and compliance with building and environmental standards.

Essential Compliance and Risk Mitigation

When placing a caravan on farmland, compliance with planning and safety requirements protects you from fines or forced removal.

Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) and Site Licence

The Role of the LDC

A Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) confirms that your caravan’s use is legal under current regulations.
It’s particularly useful in cases where the use may be temporary or open to interpretation.

When a Caravan Site Licence is Required

If more than one caravan is kept on land for an extended period, a Caravan Site Licence is usually required alongside planning permission.
This ensures that the site meets health, safety, and environmental standards.

Insurance and Utility Complications

When caravans are used for long stays, they may need specific insurance cover.
Connecting to utilities such as electricity, water, or drainage can also reclassify the site as commercial or regulated, bringing additional responsibilities.

Avoiding Enforcement Action

Consulting the Local Planning Authority

Always seek advice from your local planning authority before positioning your caravan.
Councils vary in how they interpret the rules, and early consultation helps you avoid costly enforcement or removal notices.

Proving the Need

If you’re claiming temporary or seasonal use, keep accurate records and logs.
Documentation of why and when the caravan was used can be vital if your case is reviewed by the council later.

Modern caravan with a grey air awning set up on a green grassy field with trees in the background under a bright sky.

Placing a touring caravan on agricultural land can be rewarding—especially with your caravan awning out and countryside views all around—but it does require careful planning.

From understanding the 28-day rule and how many touring caravans you can have without planning permission, to following the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act, compliance keeps your setup legal and worry-free.

With the right approach and a bit of preparation, you can enjoy the charm of rural living without falling foul of planning law.

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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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