Caravan & Mobile Home Sites
The Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960 requires all local authorities to issue site licenses relating to mobile home sites.
A licence is authorisation from the Council to allow the site owner to position caravans intended for the purpose of occupation on any land, whether for residential, holiday or touring use.
The licence will set conditions that cover a wide variety of health and safety standards relating to the site.
Planning Permission
All site owners must obtain planning permission for the development of the site and comply with any conditions set by the Development Control section before operating a site. Without planning permission, a licence will be withheld.
Changes
With effect from 1st February 2006, Charnwood Borough Council will use the powers available under section 8 of the legislation to revise its licensing conditions.
The main changes are:
•Confirmation that all sites must maintain a six metre separation zone between caravans.
•All new or repositioned caravans must be at least three metres from the site boundary.
•The Council must be notified seven days in advance of any intention to re site existing, or position, new caravans.
•Licence holders must provide a plan showing the site layout.
•Artificial lighting must be provided to improve safety on the site.
Exemptions
There are specific exemptions detailed within the legislation where a licence may not be required. For further information please contact the Council using the details given below.
Applying for a Licence
The relevant forms must be filled in by the owner of the site . The forms can be printed from here or sent to you. The application form must be returned with a site plan. A site visit will then be arranged.
Enforcement
Operating a site without a licence is an offence and the Council will actively pursue the enforcement of the site licence conditions.
If you are an owner of a site or a tenant and have any concerns relating to site licenses or the condition of the site, then please contact us using the details given below or alternatively visit the website of the DCLG(Department for Communities and Local Government)
Advice for Residents
We are aware that residents of park homes regrettably experience occasional problems and difficulties associated with ownership of their park home. Housing Minister Grant Shapps recently announced on 10 February that he would be consulting on a package of measures to better protect residents living in this sector. In local councils, complaints relating to park homes might typically be dealt with by Private Sector Housing, Planning or Trading Standards. Many Park Homes sites do not have a formally established Residents’ Association. It is suggested that establishing a Residents’ Association linked to one of the national associations which provide advice and information to their members, could provide a vital link between residents/ owners and the information/ advice they might need on a range of aspects relating to park home living. This could usefully help deflect complaints and queries from council officers.
The following organisations can provide information and advice to park home owners. Please click on the links to visit the websites.
Last updated: Mon 31st October, 2011 @ 08:42
