Shipping containers are a fantastic alternative to traditional bricks and mortar.
They take less time to construct, cost less, offer a wide range of design possibilities and are much more eco-friendly. But do the same building regulations apply? Do you need planning permission for a shipping container? Or are they exempt?
Unfortunately, the answer is a little more complicated than a simple yes or no. Every situation is different, with different rules and potential roadblocks. Which is why, before ordering your container, it’s always safer to double-check with your local authority first.
Will it be a temporary or permanent structure?
This is the big question.
Technically, a shipping container is classed as a temporary structure.
It may not have wheels, but it is portable. It isn’t designed to sit permanently or intended for use in the same way as a traditional property. And as such, it should be exempt from planning permission requirements – just like a caravan or mobile home.
But this isn’t a blanket guarantee.
Yes – in the majority of cases, shipping container planning permission won’t be required. But there are many circumstances in which it will be – and before you go ahead with the project, you’ll need to apply to your local authority in the same way you would with a traditional building.
Ultimately, the need for planning approval depends on four key factors:
1. How you intend to use the shipping container
If you plan to use it as a temporary structure (such as a home office or guest bedroom) or as an alternative to a garden shed, you probably won’t need official container planning permission.
However, if you plan to convert it from a portable to a static structure and use it as a permanent building (such as a shipping container home or business), the likelihood that you’ll need approval significantly increases. Particularly if it’ll remain in one location for 28 days or more.
Similarly, if you’re setting up a commercial self-storage facility and would like to use multiple shipping containers, you’ll almost certainly need to obtain permission from the local authority.
2. Where the container will be placed
Additional restrictions may apply depending on the intended location of the container.
If you wish to place it on land set within a national park, an area of outstanding natural beauty, or close to a listed building, the rules and regulations are likely to be much stricter. And in most cases, you will need to apply for shipping container planning permission before getting started.
Green belt land doesn’t usually cause any issues for temporary containers within the boundaries of your own home. But a permanent structure will require permission, and to be successful in your application, you may need to find a way to blend the container into its surroundings.
3. Whether it will have a wider impact
If the shipping container will be impeding access in any way, or is likely to cause excessive traffic or noise to the local area, you’re much more likely to need container planning permission.
This is also the case if your structure could cause a significant loss of light or privacy for your neighbours. In such circumstances, to increase the likelihood of permission being granted, it can be worth showing neighbours your plans from the outset and accommodating any small changes.
4. Its size
The larger the structure is, the more likely you are to need planning permission.
As a general rule of thumb, if the shipping container will cover more than half of the land surrounding your original property, be taller than the closest property or be connected to permanent utility supplies (i.e. gas and electric), local authority approval will probably be required.
Do your research and double check
It’s a legal offence to build without the appropriate planning permission in place. And if you need consent but failed to apply, you may have to demolish the structure or face legal penalties.
Therefore – even if you’re confident that you don’t require planning permission for your container – it’s always a good idea to check with your local council in advance. At the very least, it’s worth making them aware of your plans before you start building.
Provide as much information as possible, including details of:
- – the intended use
- – its location
- – the size of the structure
- – its planned aesthetic
- – whether it will be connected to utility supplies
- – how it will be accessed and secured
And be clear that you’ll make a conscious effort not to cause any kind of visual disturbance. For example, you’re willing to paint it in a particular colour or fit it with wood cladding.
Contact our experts for more information
Got a question about shipping container planning permission?
We’re here to help.
As a leading UK supplier of shipping containers – and specialists in bespoke container conversions – we have excellent knowledge and experience in this area.
Once we know a bit more about your ideal structure, not only can we advise on whether approval is likely to be needed, we can also help you to satisfy any planning permission requirements – designing and manufacturing a structure that is perfect for your needs, whilst meeting all the specified rules and regulations.
To chat with a member of the team, simply give us a call on 0870 240 9405. Or if you prefer, send an email to sales@gapcontainers.co.uk and we’ll respond to your enquiry as soon as possible.
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