Temporary Structure Planning Permission (UK): When is it Required?

Temporary buildings offer a fast, flexible way to create space where and when it's needed - without the delays, disruption or commitment of permanent construction. Whether you need extra accommodation on a construction site, welfare facilities during refurbishment or additional space at a sports ground, a temporary structure can be installed quickly and used immediately.

But before installation, one question always comes up when customers call us: does this structure need planning permission? Knowing when permission applies - and when it doesn’t - is essential to avoid setbacks, fines or removal orders.

The general rule is that not all temporary structures require planning permission, but it depends on several factors. Floor space, intended use, site boundary and how long you plan to keep the structure in place can all affect whether you must obtain planning permission. In most cases, the best step is to check with your local planning authority before installation. This guide explains what to consider when assessing planning permission for temporary buildings.

WHAT COUNTS AS A TEMPORARY STRUCTURE?

A temporary structure is any semi-permanent building or unit that isn’t designed to remain in place indefinitely. Examples include modular cabins, portable welfare units and other semi-permanent structures used for accommodation, vehicle parking or storage.

Bunkabin's units - such as shower blocks, sleepers or diner cabins - are examples of temporary buildings that offer immediate space without committing to long-term infrastructure. These structures are often installed quickly and removed just as easily - but whether or not you need planning permission depends on the details of your site and project.

DO YOU NEED PLANNING PERMISSION?

As with many things in life, the expert answer is “it depends” - but that’s not particularly helpful. In many cases, you may not need permission. For example, if a new temporary structure is in place for less than 28 consecutive days within a single calendar year, it could fall under permitted development rights. That means there is no need for you to submit a planning permission application. See this FAQ from the Crown Commercial Service for more info.

However, once a structure is used for longer than 28 days - or if it exceeds certain floor space thresholds - you may need to obtain planning permission. Requirements can also vary depending on the local planning authority, and approaches may differ between councils across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Situations that often trigger the need for permission include:

• The structure is near a residential zone, conservation area or area of outstanding natural beauty.
• The unit would materially alter the appearance or use of the existing original build or land.
• The temporary building impacts vehicle parking, public rights of way or leads to increased traffic.
• The entire site area is already close to its development limit under current planning regulations.

In any case, confirming your position with your local authority before installation is always a sensible step.

WHAT’S THE PLANNING PERMISSION PROCESS?

If your project requires planning permission, the process usually involves the following steps:

1. Check with your local authority: each council interprets planning legislation slightly differently, so it’s worth confirming how they view temporary buildings in your location.
2. Submit a planning application: this is done via the planning portal and typically includes:

• A planning statement describing the building’s intended use.
• CAD drawings showing the site, layout and floor plans.
• Elevations and details of materials and finishes.
• Any other documents the local planning authority requests.

3. Await feedback: the full planning permission process can take up to eight weeks, so early preparation helps avoid project delays.

If your temporary structure needs to comply with building regulations, your local authority can confirm what applies.

CAN YOU SEEK RETROSPECTIVE PLANNING PERMISSION?

If your temporary structure is already in place without formal approval, you can apply for retrospective planning permission. This is common when buildings are needed urgently or there is uncertainty around the rules.

Bear in mind, however, that retrospective planning carries risk. If your local council refuses the application, you may be required to remove the structure and return the site to its original state. That's why we always recommend speaking to our team for professional advice before proceeding.

In these situations, temporary structures offer clear advantages:

• Quick deployment and set-up, allowing you to respond rapidly to site needs.
• Reduced running costs, with no lengthy planning process or construction overheads.
• No administrative delays, since the planning permission process can be bypassed entirely.
• Immediate use in urgent scenarios, such as site emergencies, temporary refurbishments or short-term requirements for extra space.

That said, permitted development rights aren’t guaranteed. Rules vary depending on your location and the specifics of the site. It’s always worth confirming the position with your local planning authority before installation to avoid potential compliance issues later on.

HOW BUNKABIN CAN HELP

Our clients regularly use temporary buildings in ways that don’t require planning permission - from sleeper units on short-term construction sites to toilet and shower blocks used at short-term events, Bunkabin buildings are designed to be installed quickly and used immediately. For many projects, the ability to proceed without a full planning application helps save time, reduce costs and meet short lead times.

To see how we can improve your site, get in touch with our team today by calling 0345 456 7899 or by filling out our contact form.