As you would expect, there are specific permissions required when setting up a glampsite.
This page offers some insight into the world of planning permission. We cover this intricate topic in our magazine, from structures to drainage systems.
This page does not seek to replace professional or legal planning advice.
Planning Permission
You probably need it.
If you’re interested in starting a glamping business, your biggest question is most likely: do I need planning permission? The answer is, almost always, yes*.
Don’t be fooled by the often semi-permanent nature of glamping structures – it’s more likely than not you will need official planning permission. Even if you are operating a simple pop-up site with bell tents or yurts, the W/C facilities, kitchens and any electrical works will all need permission from your local authority.
It unfortunately can be an unpredictable (and lengthy) process, usually due to issues such as conservation restrictions, negative reactions from neighbours, or how a Planning Officer views or interprets the proposed concept and information.
It can be extremely helpful to reach out to other site owners who have already been through the process. You may also want to consider working with a consultant, who will help to survey your land and answer any queries you may have.
*Previously 28 days, the new ’60-Day Rule’ allows a English landowner to use land for tented camping without having to get formal planning permission for 60 days in a calendar year.
Always check your local authority’s regulations.
Resources
Have some information that would be useful to our readers? Get in touch with us.
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It’s all about the research: obtaining a site permit in North America
Louise Stone from TruDomes explains the value of doing your homework in obtaining a glampsite permit in North America.
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How to avoid planning delays for your glamping start-up
Thankfully, there are certain routes to bypass the seemingly never ending delay for planning permission in the UK.
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New planning laws are a gamechanger for UK glamping
The new law makes it easier for landowners to set up viable temporary campsites. TruDomes explains the regulations and the opportunities.
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Glamping gets a boost from new 60-day permitted development rights in England
The law change allows landowners to operate a temporary camping or glamping site for up to 60 days without requiring planning permission.
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The Essential Glamping Business Manual 2022
International Glamping Business and Crown & Canopy have teamed up for the fourth edition of the popular Essential Glamping Business Manual.
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An Architect’s View: Mark Waghorn on Designing a Site
Walking around the Glamping show recently, I was struck by the variety of types of accommodation unit that are on the market. From traditional yurts, safari tents, bell tents and shepherds’ huts to more complex designs such geodesic domes, tree houses and all permutations of pods structures, the choice for potential buyers can be overwhelming…
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UK Glamping Planning Application Process
by Kate Morel Kate heads up Morel & Co, who specialise in experiential and boutique glamping such as treehouses and quirky cabins. She also runs an independent consultancy, supporting forward-thinking landowners to develop and diversify using her intuitive understanding of prevailing market demands. Considered a leading glamping industry expert and ambassador, she writes regularly for business publications, runs…
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A (Not-So) Short Treehouse Planning Tale
Once upon a time, a boy wanted a treehouse. A reasonable request for a dreamer. Somewhere outside of the confounds of reality, where he could manifest his ambitions. It all began a long, long time ago, in the year 2011. The boy, a man, myself, started a glamping agency called Quality Unearthed soon we began…
