Planning Permission For Modular Buildings – Do You Need it?

Must You Obtain Planning Permission for Modular Buildings?

Many understandably wonder if it is necessary to secure planning permission for modular buildings. This is especially the case when the unit is not planned for long term use.

You may also be wondering the same, that’s why we prepared this page to guide you. In this article, you’ll learn all about planning permission in the UK and when it will be necessary for modular buildings. You’ll also learn what considerations you will need to keep in mind, should you require an application for planning permission.

But first off, you need to understand why planning permission is a factor in this discussion.

Planning permission in the UK

In order for communities, towns and the country as a whole to develop in organised fashion, development must be planned. In the UK, development planning is made in line with the guidance contained in the National Planning Policy. This policy reflects what kind of development is desired for the country and how best to achieve it.

This is why property developers are usually required to obtain planning permission before they commence construction. It is all in a bid to ensure that construction is carried out in accordance with best practices, and importantly, in a fashion that reflects well on the host community. After all, you’re unlikely to appreciate the construction of a waste recycling plant right down the street from your picture perfect home.

In the UK, planning permission is administered by Local Planning Authorities (LPA). They make decisions on whether to grant planning permission in accordance with local planning policies and the National Policy.

So, if you need to make an application, you will ordinarily make it to the local authority in the community where your site is located. Applications are usually made via a harmonised application form available online.

Do you need to secure planning permission for modular buildings?

With modular buildings, a bit of a dilemma occurs. Ordinarily, construction is permanent. This means that you will most likely change the face of the community forever, if you’re putting something up.

But if what you are installing is a temporary relocatable unit, then you’re not making any permanent changes to the site. Would you still need to apply for building permission in this instance?

The straight answer to this is: it depends. What you can be sure it does not depend on though, is the fact that you are installing a modular building. Although many do not know this, modular buildings are not treated differently from traditional buildings when it concerns planning permission.

What would determine if you need to apply for permission, are entirely different considerations. In general, you will not need planning permission for modular bui