Everything You Need to Know About Planning Permission For Our Stables and Other Timber Buildings
Organising planning permission for your stables, mobile field shelters, and other timber buildings can be daunting for many horse owners. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on when you need planning permission, what’s involved in the process, and how our team at Prime Stables can support you.
What is Planning Permission?
In the UK, planning permission is the approval you need from your local council before building something new, making big changes to an existing property, or changing how a building or land is used. It helps ensure that developments fit in with local plans and don’t negatively impact the environment or community. Some smaller projects are covered by ‘permitted development rights,’ which means you don’t need formal permission. However, it’s always best to check with your local planning authority first, as doing work without the necessary permission can lead to enforcement action.
Do You Need Planning Permission For Stables and Other Timber Buildings?
Yes, you usually need planning permission for permanent stables and other timber buildings because they involve construction on your property. Local councils look at things like the size and design of the building, how it impacts the surrounding area, and whether it meets local rules. Since these requirements can vary, it’s always a good idea to check with your local council before getting started.
If you’re building within your garden, some projects might be allowed under permitted development rights, meaning you wouldn’t need formal planning permission. But it’s risky to assume this applies – always double-check with your council to avoid issues later on.
Navigating the planning process can feel daunting, so we always recommend getting help from a planning consultant who will understand your specific case.
Do Mobile Stables and Field Shelters Need Planning Permission?
In most cases, mobile field shelters and mobile stables do not require planning permission as they are not a fixed structure. This makes them a quick and hassle-free solution to providing your horses with a quality home.
However, this is not a hard and fast rule. Whether you need planning permission or not can vary depending on your local council and factors such as the size of the mobile stable or shelter, its intended use, and the location on your property. It is also important to remember that if they stay in one spot for too long or are in a protected area, like a conservation zone, you might need permission. To be safe, it’s best to move them regularly and not position on a concrete base as this can indicate it will not be consistently moved.
How Can Prime Stables Help
We’re always happy to explain the planning procedures, but we can’t handle the planning permission application for you. You’ll need to manage this directly with your local planning authority. However, we strongly recommend using a planning consultant for equestrian planning applications. They have the expertise to present your application professionally, giving it the best chance of success.
A planning consultant will communicate with the relevant planning officer on your behalf and aim to get their feedback before the end of the 8-week application period. If there are any concerns, they can be discussed and hopefully resolved between all parties, reducing the risk of a refusal. This proactive approach often leads to a successful outcome.
While we can’t complete the planning application for you, we’re here to help by providing detailed planning drawings to support your application and make the process as straightforward as possible.
Testimonials
Providing You With Planning Drawings
We have supplied many of our clients with architectural plans that are fully completed and ready for planning applications. As experts in this field, we ensure that all our planning drawings are well set out, clear, and easy to understand, helping you with your application.
Elevation Drawings
We offer elevation drawings for £180, which are refunded from your deposit if you proceed with your order. These detailed drawings show the design, height, and appearance of your timber building, helping the planning authority visualise your project.
Ordnance Survey (OS) Maps
We can also provide Ordnance Survey (OS) Maps, which are essential for planning applications. These maps start at £133.80 and are non-refundable. We offer two types: Site Location Plans, which show the wider surrounding area, and Block Plans, which show the immediate surrounding area. Our planning drawings make the application process easier and help set you up for success.
Specially Tailored for You and Your Horse
National Coverage
We cover the whole of the UK and offer a full service from design to installation.
Bespoke Service
Our service is fully bespoke, designed, and built especially for you.
Installation Included
We’re experts, so you can rest assured our installation process is quick and hassle-free.
Getting Your Groundwork Ready Before We Arrive
Prime Stables does not provide the groundwork for your stables or other timber buildings, so it’s essential that the site is fully prepared before we arrive for installation. We recommend having the groundwork, including any concrete bases, completed at least two weeks in advance. This allows the concrete to properly set, ensuring a stable and secure foundation. However, setting times can vary depending on the weather, so it’s best to allow plenty of time. If you live near our West Sussex base, we can recommend an excellent local contractor to help get everything ready.
Get in Touch With The Team Today
If you have more questions about planning permission or need help with planning drawings, get in touch with our friendly team. Don’t forget to explore our range of bespoke stables, mobile field shelters, and other timber buildings to find the perfect solution for your needs.
*Photos of the Prime Stables family
Start Your Prime Stables Journey Today
Begin designing your horse’s dream mobile stables by speaking to our friendly team today. They can provide expert advice during a free, no-obligation consultation to get you started on your Prime Stables journey.
Planning Permission FAQs
Do I need planning permission for stables on agricultural land?
Yes, constructing stables on agricultural land typically requires planning permission, as it changes the land’s use from agriculture to equestrian. This is considered a ‘change of use’ and necessitates approval from your local planning authority. It’s advisable to consult with them before starting any construction.
Do I need planning permission to replace existing stables?
Replacing existing stables usually requires planning permission, especially if the new structure differs in size, design, or location from the original. Even like-for-like replacements may need approval, as regulations can vary by area. Always check with your local planning authority to ensure compliance before proceeding.
Do I need planning permission for mobile stables or a mobile field shelter?
Mobile field shelters often don’t require planning permission, provided they are genuinely mobile. However, if the land is in a designated area, such as a National Park or conservation area, or if the shelter remains in one place for extended periods, permission may be needed. Consult your local planning authority for specific guidance.
Do I need planning permission for a garage?
Building a garage usually requires planning permission, especially if it’s a standalone structure or significantly alters the existing property. However, under permitted development rights, you might be able to add a garage without formal permission, provided it meets specific size and location criteria. It’s essential to verify with your local planning authority, as rules can vary.
Do I need planning permission for a garden office?
A garden office may not require planning permission if it’s considered a permitted development. This typically means it’s a single-storey structure, occupying less than 50% of your garden, and not used for overnight accommodation. However, restrictions apply, especially in designated areas or for listed buildings. Always consult your local planning authority to confirm.
What is retrospective planning permission?
Retrospective planning permission is when you apply for approval after building something without the necessary consent. You can apply within four years for most buildings or ten years if the building changes the use of the land. If granted, it legalises the work, but if denied, you may need to undo the changes and face legal consequences. We never recommend this approach as it is so risky.
