DO YOU NEED PLANNING PERMISSION FOR A TEMPORARY STRUCTURE (UK)?

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 it's extra accommodation on a construction site, facilities at a sports ground, or welfare space during a refurbishment, these structures are designed to be easy to set up, and simple to maintain.

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: not all temporary structures require planning permission, but it depends on the specifics. Factors like floor space, intended use, site boundary and how long you plan to keep the structure in place all affect the decision. In most cases, it's best to check with your local planning authority before installation to get a clear answer. This blog outlines what you need to consider when it comes to planning permission for temporary site cabins.

WHAT COUNTS AS A TEMPORARY STRUCTURE?

A temporary structure is typically something that’s not intended as a permanent building. These might be semi-permanent buildings, portacabins, modular units or moveable temporary buildings used for things like vehicle parking, accommodation or site welfare.

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 structure needs approval, the planning permission process involves a few steps:

1. Check with your local council: each local planning authority may interpret rules slightly differently, so it’s worth contacting them for confirmation.
2. Submit a planning application via the planning portal, which includes:
   1. A planning statement describing the purpose and use of the structure.
   2. Drawings of the site and proposed layout.
   3. Floor plans and elevations.
   4. Any other documents the local authority requires.
   • Await feedback: the whole process can take up to eight weeks, so early preparation helps avoid delays.

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.