Planning Permission for a Temporary Building : A Quick Guide

Just because a building is temporary does not mean that it does not need planning permission. Of course, there are some cases where you might not need it, but most of the times planning permission is a must.

Without a planning permission, if the local authorities receive a complaint from a neighbor, then the whole structure can be removed or relocated. Though relocating a temporary structure is much easier, it comes with costs. You are therefore advised to apply for planning permission before the construction begins.

Planning permission is not only needed when you are erecting a new structure. You can also be required to apply for one when you are doing extensions on an existing building. To avoid having your entire structure pulled down, apply for planning permission first. Here is a quick guide on how to go about it.

When planning permission is needed

If you build a temporary structure that covers an area more than 100M²and you use it continuously for more than 28 days, then you need planning permission. Put together of all the required documents and submit them to the local authorities. You will also require planning permission if:

•   The structure is closer than 5m to the boundary of your land
•   The structure significantly reduces the space available for parking vehicles, or
•   The structure covers more than 25% of your land.

Whether you are erecting a temporary business or school building, it is important to get planning permission from the authorities. You can use experienced planning and temporary building consultants like Smart Space Experts to handle your planning permission application.

Who makes the planning permission application?

The owner of the land is the one who applies for the planning permission of the building they intend to build. You can do this by yourself or get assistance from a planning consultant. The planning applications are not the same for all local authorities and depend on where your land is located.

The entire process is different if your land is in a conservation area, listed property, or a national park. If the temporary structure is to be situated in a national park, then the planning permission application should be submitted to the national park authorities.

What are your chances of getting the planning permission?

Nowadays, local authorities offer pre-application advice before you make the real application. You are advised to discuss this with a planning officer or an officer from the authorities before you proceed. Note that you can be charged for pre-application advice by some local authorities.

Below are some factors that you should consider before submitting your application.

•   The impact the building can have on the community and neighboring properties
•   The size of the building including the height
•   The infrastructure in the area such as roads and water supply
•   If there is any effect on parking or traffic

Enlisting the services of a planning officer will help reduce the impact the structure will have on the neighboring areas.

The earlier you apply the better. This ensures that any issues that may arise are ironed out quickly. If the temporary building is urgently required, then you can apply for a retrospective planning permission. However, you have to provide sufficient evidence that the building is urgently needed.