Temporary Structure Planning Permission
Do I need planning permission for a temporary structure?
Temporary structure planning permission is one of the most important considerations when you decide to hire or purchase a temporary building or structure. Even though the building isn’t permanent, that does not mean that planning permission won’t be required. If we refer to the government guidelines, there are certain cases where planning permission WILL be required:
Temporary structure planning permission will be required:
- If the temporary building will be in use for longer than 28 days
- If the temporary structure is closer than 5m from your site boundaries
- If the floor space is greater than 200m2
- If the building’s volume is more than 25% of the existing building
- If the building is more than 25% of the area available on your site
- If assembled structure reduces the space you have for vehicles parking or manoeuvring
- If the structure materially affects the external appearance of the building
How Fews can help your planning application
The majority of cases do need temporary structure planning permission though, and it can take between 8-13 weeks to get a response depending on the nature of the project. Fews offer a comprehensive support package for temporary structure planning permission through our partners, Fisher German and Harris Lamb. This aspect is sometimes overlooked and considered only as an afterthought, but it can sometimes be complex and the assistance of experts is invaluable.
Fisher German LLP have grown at an impressive rate since established in 2000, with 600 people across a network of 26 UK offices. Many years of sector specific experience have given them a sound understanding of the planning process.
Harris Lamb was established in 1992 to provide commercial property advice on a regional and national basis to clients that include Occupiers, Developers, Property Funds, Investors and Public Sector Organisations.
With our combined experience at your disposal, the process of buying or renting a temporary building should be a straightforward one. Contact us, and we’ll be more than happy to help.
Here is a step by step guide to help you understand whether you require temporary structure planning permission.
Retrospective Planning Permission
If you urgently need a temporary structure, you may apply for retrospective planning permission.
Urgent situations include cases where a temporary building is required for disaster recovery, such as after fire damage. It is advisable to submit a well-prepared planning case from a specialist to strengthen your application.
A retrospective planning application follows the same process as any other application. In principle, it is assessed as though the work had not yet been carried out. However, in practice, the planning officer can evaluate the actual impact of the existing structure more accurately.
While the local planning authority has the right to request modifications, they must carefully consider whether such changes are justified and whether implementing them would be costly or impractical.
The Planning Process – A Timeline
We will help to simplify this process for you, saving time and increasing the likelihood of a favourable outcome. For simple projects the process will be around eight weeks. For more complex projects the period is 13 weeks.
If the application is successful you can go right ahead. However, if it is denied then it’s not the end. The decision letter will usually outline the reasons for rejecting your application. You can address these issues and resubmit your application.
Some exceptions where temporary structure planning permission will not be required
There are certainly some cases where planning permission is not required, for example where a building is in use for less than 28 days and the floor space is less than 200m2.
However, all conditions need to be met, and you may need expert advice on these instances
Enjoy our industry-leading service - pick up the phone and let us do the rest.
Call 01527 821789 or email info@temporarystructures.co.uk
Tony, Matt, and Lucy are our dedicated account managers with extensive expertise and experience leading major builds. One of them will guide you through every step of the process.
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