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Following recent government relaxation of ‘permitted development’ planning rules, businesses can now open for 56 days in a calendar year (previously 28 days) for camping. This extension has been granted until the end of December 2021.
You must check your ‘permitted development’ rights as signature of a s106 agreement with the Council will prevent such rights. Assuming there is no restriction, many businesses are considering diversification into summer camping to gain much needed cashflow.
While you can open for longer, you may still need a site licence if operating for more than 42 consecutive days.
Alternatively, as no licence is required for up to 60 non-consecutive days, you may insert a gap to avoid breaching the 42-day period. You should consider cherry-picking the best of the summer period to gain another bank holiday later in the year. Your local authority can provide more information.
Beware, any moveable structures on wheels/skids connected with use of the site, such as portaloos still on-site count towards one of the permitted days.
Glamping units, such as bell tents and trailer tents can also benefit from these rules, subject to how they are constructed. However, caravans, motorhomes/ campervans, shepherd huts and touring caravans cannot.
So, what else do you need to consider:
Review your local authority advice.
Insurance – public liability is a must and employers’ liability too, if employing staff (together with health and safety requirements).
Are toilets and shower blocks required? You should check with your council guidance.
Water – safe drinking water; a wastewater point and covered bins should be provided for dry waste.
Business rates? Concessions may apply due to Covid-19 but even if due, you may qualify for small business rate relief.
Consider local competition and pricing.
Keep detailed accounting information for inclusion as part of your accounts or tax return.
Consider whether this enterprise should be run as part of your existing business or separately for VAT purposes, if you are VAT registered.
Consider the deductibility of costs incurred against the income gained.
Ensure you are meeting the latest COVID-19 risk assessment and priority actions.
If you are a farmer, camping and caravan sites are permitted ‘non-agricultural activities’ under the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) for up to 28 days in a calendar year. However, if this activity is run for longer than 28 days, you should report the activity on your BPS form.
If you are considering taking advantage of this relaxation of the permitted development rules for provision of camping sites in any format, it is important to discuss your options with your main point of contact at Simpkins Edwards.