Starting a glamping business can be a dream come true, but navigating legal requirements like glamping site licences, planning permission, and compliance can be complex—and costly if overlooked.
As glamping’s popularity grows, more prospective site owners are confused by conflicting information from industry suppliers. Many believe that a simple licence or approval will allow them to operate, yet this misunderstanding can lead to financial loss and even legal trouble. Here’s what every aspiring glamping entrepreneur needs to know about licensing, planning, and why compliance is essential for a successful, sustainable site.
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Why Glamping Site Licensing is Confusing - and Potentially Risky
The Glampitect team - all working full time on helping people set up glaming sites
The confusion surrounding glamping site licensing has grown as suppliers and licensing organisations encourage prospective site owners to forgo planning permission in favour of a simple glamping site licence. Suppliers might downplay the importance of planning permission to sell units more quickly, but many new glamping owners eventually face enforcement issues that could have been avoided. Planning permission is often mandatory for commercial sites, especially those with permanent structures, utilities, or other substantial infrastructure.
Many glamping suppliers claim a licence will suffice, but this misguidance has led to severe issues for some. With over half of surveyed glamping suppliers saying that planning permission isn’t required, prospective site owners may believe they can skip a formal application. This misconception has created a "grey market" in the industry, with glamping businesses sometimes operating at high risk without appropriate permissions.Watch our full video on glamping licensing youtube now.
What’s the Difference Between a Glamping Site Licence and Planning Permission?
Calum's own Glamping site (with planning permission) North Coast 500 Pods
To operate legally, a glamping business must understand the distinctions between a glamping site licence and planning permission. A glamping site licence, often marketed by suppliers, is designed for temporary, movable structures like tents or yurts at most, without permanent utilities or foundations. These structures are presumed to be "temporary" because they lack fixed plumbing, power lines, or other semi-permanent installations. Licences were originally created for camping.
However, in the vast majority of cases, planning permission is required for commercial glamping sites. Planning permission considers factors like infrastructure impact, traffic flow, road access, environmental impact, and local development regulations. Planning authorities evaluate whether a site will impact the surrounding area, a crucial factor when installing multiple units or connecting to local utilities.
The misconception that a glamping site licence can replace planning permission is problematic, as local planning authorities are likely to issue enforcement notices if they discover a site operating without permission. An enforcement notice requires owners to dismantle any unauthorised structures, often within a strict timeline of just 28 days—an incredibly costly and stressful setback for any business.
Want to find out if a licence will work for you? Book a call with the team today.
The Risks of Skipping Glamping Planning Permission
Jack from the Glampitect team at the Farm Innovation Show
Without planning permission, glamping site owners are vulnerable to sudden disruptions. Complaints from neighbours, increased traffic, or use of any infrastructure or foundations can bring the site to the attention of local planning authorities, triggering an inspection. Even if a site has a glamping site licence, non-compliance with planning regulations can lead to severe consequences. For instance, some sites have faced mandatory removal of high-cost structures, such as glamping pods and shepherd’s huts, after spending hundreds of thousands on building and setup.
A glamping site licence may appear simpler, especially as some suppliers promote it as a shortcut. Yet, a licensed-only approach can leave business owners exposed to several challenges:
- Vulnerability to Complaints: Neighbours or community members who see or experience issues with the site’s traffic or appearance can lodge complaints. These are often taken seriously by planning authorities.
- Inadequate Infrastructure: Temporary licences allow no utilities like power, water, or drainage. In reality, even "temporary" glamping setups will need these services, and connecting them without planning permission puts the owner at risk.
- Enforcement Notices: If planning finds a site non-compliant, they can issue an enforcement notice requiring site dismantling within 28 days. Given the costs associated with glamping setup—sometimes over £100,000—this can lead to devastating financial losses.
Want to find out more about glamping planning permission? Book a call with the team today.
The Importance of Planning Permission for Long-Term Glamping Success
Some of the Glampitect team at the Glamping Show
For glamping entrepreneurs, the benefits of planning permission far outweigh the costs and time involved. Planning permission ensures your site meets legal standards, reduces potential risks, and helps safeguard the future of your glamping business. Sites with planning permission are also viewed as more reliable by investors, lenders, and customers alike. For a glamping business intended to operate long-term, planning permission provides stability and legitimacy.
With planning permission, site owners can:
- Install Permanent Infrastructure: Planning permission allows for permanent connections to utilities like water, electricity, and drainage, enabling higher-quality accommodations and better guest experiences.
- Ensure Compliance with Local Regulations: Planning permission considers local laws, safety regulations, and environmental impact. This reduces risks and shows a commitment to responsible business practices.
- Reduce the Risk of Costly Legal Issues: Planning permission greatly minimises the risk of enforcement notices or complaints requiring costly site changes or removal.
How to Avoid Pitfalls with Licensing for Glamping Sites
Drawing of a glamping pod
If you’re exploring options for a camping club licence or glamping club licence, be wary of overly simplistic licensing arrangements that bypass planning permission requirements. Consider consulting a planning professional who understands glamping regulations in your area. Additionally, ask suppliers clear, specific questions about compliance and licensing versus planning requirements.
When assessing a potential licence arrangement, here are some critical questions to consider:
- Is the site truly temporary? A true “temporary” setup lacks permanent utilities, concrete foundations, and structures that could be considered non-movable.
- Will I need access to water, electricity, or drainage? If so, planning permission is likely necessary to meet safety and compliance standards.
- What happens if a complaint is filed? Confirm with licensing providers how complaints will be handled and whether they have the authority to respond.
- Is the site anchored or requires permanent structures? Structures that need anchoring or fixed foundations usually require planning permission.
If there are any doubts, it’s better to seek formal planning permission rather than risk future complications. Many glamping businesses find it beneficial to work with a consultant who can assist with both licensing and planning applications, ensuring all aspects of the site are legally compliant and sustainable.
Want to avoid the pitfalls of a glamping licence? Book a call with the team today.
Questions, Licencing Company Answers and Our Answers
A shepherd's hut requires planning permission, not just a licence
We spoke with some suppliers of glamping licences to get an understanding of what they were telling people. Frankly we were shocked. Here are some of the questions, their answers and our answers.
Q: Do glamping sites need planning permission for commercial use?
- Supplier Answer: “No, as long as you’re not doing too much.” Some suppliers argue that minimal setups with one or two units don’t require planning permission.
- Our Answer: Even a single unit for commercial use can attract attention and trigger inspections if a complaint is filed. Planning permission provides more security, regardless of unit count.
Q: Can you bypass council planning with a private licensing company?
- Supplier Answer: “Yes, you can use another company for planning approvals instead of the council.”
- Our Answer: Licensing companies may offer this, but these approvals don’t replace formal council planning permission, especially if utilities, foundations, or permanent infrastructure are installed.
Q: What if the site has basic utilities like water, drainage, or electricity?
- Supplier Answer: “Temporary tanks and above-ground cables are fine, as no one will notice.”
- Our Answer: Once utilities are connected, the site no longer qualifies as “temporary.” Fixed plumbing and cables often require planning permission to meet safety and compliance standards.
Q: Is it safe to run electricity for glamping units above ground?
- Supplier Answer: “Yes, you can run cables above ground—no one’s going to check.”
- Our Answer: Above-ground cables for high-power setups can pose serious safety risks and violate UK-wide regulations. Properly installed, underground cables are essential for safe operations.
Q: Can I anchor glamping units if they’re heavy enough?
- Supplier Answer: “Yes, the weight of the units will keep them in place.”
- Our Answer: Anchoring or adding foundations makes the unit effectively permanent. Even heavy structures should have proper foundations to ensure safety and withstand adverse weather, which generally requires planning permission.
Q: How does a complaint from a neighbour affect my licensing?
- Supplier Answer: “Complaints might be manageable as long as there aren’t too many.”
- Our Answer: Neighbour complaints often lead to inspections, and frequent issues can force a licensing company to withdraw support. Planning permission helps protect against these complaints by ensuring compliance upfront.
Q: What is an enforcement notice, and when does it apply?
- Supplier Answer: “It’s rare, but it happens when planning gets involved after the fact.”
- Our Answer: An enforcement notice requires site owners to remove structures within a tight deadline, often 28 days, if planning permission wasn’t obtained. Avoiding these notices is key to protecting your investment.
Q: What if the licensing laws change in the future?
- Supplier Answer: “With enough licensed sites around, there’s little risk.”
- Our Answer: Licensing regulations can change, and planning authorities enforce compliance. Relying solely on a license without planning permission could lead to future compliance issues.
Summary on Glamping Site Licenses: Making Informed Choices for Your Glamping Business
Calum from the Glampitect team talking about glamping planning permission
A thriving glamping business requires more than just attractive pods or unique tents—it requires solid legal grounding and a deep understanding of planning requirements. While a glamping site licence might seem convenient, it doesn’t offer the same protection and assurance as full planning permission. Investing in planning permission from the start not only helps ensure compliance but also secures your business against unexpected risks, enforcement actions, and costly setbacks.
As the glamping industry continues to grow, responsible site management and adherence to local planning laws are crucial. Whether you choose a licence or opt for planning permission, ensure you fully understand the implications and protections each option provides. In the end, securing your site’s compliance is the best way to protect your investment and create a successful, sustainable glamping business that can welcome guests for years to come.
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