Example Letters

Example Informal Letter to the Council

You may wish to write to the Planning Authority on an informal basis asking in principle if a caravan or mobile home can be used in your garden without planning permission. The advantage of informal letters is you often receive a quicker response but the disadvantage being it’s not a legally binding decision and it can later be disregarded if on closer inspection the situation is proven unlawful, for example the location is not later considered garden, but an ‘orchard’ for example. In situations where a static caravan is being used for a short number of years on an occasional basis, you may consider an informal written response from the authorities is sufficient confirmation that the use is outside of planning control. For larger, more expensive, mobile homes that are for permanent use, then an application for a lawful development certificate is advised.

 

[Date]

[Council address]

Dear Sir

[FULL ADDRESS OF THE PROPERTY]

I am proposing to station a mobile home in the garden of my property above. A location plan is attached with the property edged red.

I understand I do not need planning permission to station a mobile home and would be grateful to receive your confirmation.

The mobile home would be stationed within the curtilage of my house.

The mobile home would be a [type of caravan proposed] which would come within the definition of a caravan in terms of its design, mobility, size and construction.

The mobile home would be placed on the land and would not be fixed to the ground.

The mobile home would be used for [an annexe by a family member(s) / additional bedrooms / guest accommodation / staff accommodation / hobbies] as an integral part of the overall use of the house as a single dwelling. It would share services, facilities and access with the house.

I believe the proposed use would not be a material change of use or would be incidental to the enjoyment of the dwelling house.

If you have any questions, please contact me. Otherwise, I look forward to receiving your confirmation.

 Yours faithfully

[signature]

[your name]