Do You Need Planning Permission For Temporary Buildings?

Businesses across various sectors are now making use of temporary buildings, with these high-quality structures providing a fast, affordable and efficient alternative to traditional construction.

However, one question you may have with this approach is whether planning permission is needed for temporary buildings. Knowing the answer to this will help you avoid any setbacks with your project, as well as potential fines or even orders to have a structure removed.

Here at Portakabin®, we understand that navigating the rules around the National Planning Policy Framework and local planning policies can sometimes be stressful when you just want to quickly improve your workplace environment. That is why we have prepared this guide on everything you need to know about obtaining planning permission for these types of buildings…

Generally, planning permission will be required if your temporary building is going to be used for longer than 28 days.

There are a few other elements factored into when planning permission will be needed, but it is important to remember that requirements will vary from one local planning authority to the next. Councils across the Home Nations may also differ in how they approach a planning permission application, so:

• If you are based in England or Wales, start your enquiries about a planning permission application here.
• If you are based in Scotland, start your enquiries about a planning permission application here.
• If you are based in Northern Ireland, start your enquiries about a planning permission application here.

As best practice, we recommend that you always confirm your position with your local authority before installing any new structure around your premises. Each project must be looked at individually too.

The statutory time limits for your application for planning permission to be approved are eight weeks for a minor application and 13-15 weeks for a major application.

Appeals are also possible if your original application is refused (though again the criteria for doing so differ between England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland), but it can take several months for the outcome of an appeal to be decided.

With these timings in mind, you should apply for planning permission at the earliest opportunity and factor in the expected durations of approval when putting together your project plan.