Tent site licence

Section 269 Public Health Act 1936 gives us powers to control the use of movable dwellings and to licence the use of land as a site for such as a dwelling.

If the land is to be used for more than 28 days in total in any calendar year, you must obtain planning permission.

A site which is used for more than 42 days consecutively or 60 days in total in any consecutive 12 months, must have a site licence for the area concerned.

Sites with planning permission for mixed accommodation provisions, including tents, will 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 an area of a site is used for the siting of tents but does not have the relevant planning consent it will be licensed separately under Section 269 Public Health Act 1936.

We 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.

Contact Environmental Health on the details below to enquire about applying for a tent site licence

In addition to the need to obtain a caravan or camp site licence, site operators must comply with relevant health and safety legislation. Health and safety on caravan and camping sites is enforced by the local authority, usually the Environmental Health Department, but in some instances may be enforced by the Health and Safety Executive, including caravan and campsites located on working farms.

Health and safety checklist for caravan and campsite operators

The health and safety checklist for caravan and campsite operators may be useful when carrying out your site risk assessment or assessment review, follow the links under each topic area to more detailed information.

Dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning from barbecues

Read our guidance on BBQ safety - the dangers of carbon monoxide to understand the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning from barbecues.