Do I Need Planning Permission for a Polytunnel?

 


Many UK farmers are thinking about erecting polytunnels on their land to extend the growing season. It is a great idea. But there is one issue that is causing headaches for some UK farmers and that is planning permission. Farmland does not usually require you to get planning permission? Do you need planning permission for commercial polytunnels in the UK? The answer to the question is, in general, no. However, both erecting new polytunnels and using polytunnel supplies to restore an old tunnel is a bit of a grey area.

If you are thinking about erecting commercial polytunnels on your land, approaching your local council is the best way forward. Your council should be able to tell you if you can add a polytunnel to your land. The emphasis is very much on the word “should.” The truth is that not all planning offices are aware of the latest guidance on commercial polytunnels in the UK. They may not even know what they are, let alone have heard about polytunnel supplies for large refurbishment projects.

Of course, there are many ways in which you can approach the problem. The best way is to come up with a business plan. Once you have put your business plan together, sitting down with a planning officer from your local council is the next step. Give them an insight into what polytunnel supplies for an extension are all about and the many benefits of growing crops in a polytunnel. Perhaps you can even say to them that eventually, you may be able to offer jobs to local people. That should grab their attention

What defines commercial polytunnels? The main definition of commercial polytunnels is as a form of permaculture that allows you as a farmer to extend the growing season. Unfortunately, there are no actual measurements available when it comes to what size defines a commercial polytunnel.

This is a problem that plagues many farmers and councils. Many councils see polytunnels as non-permanent structures. Therefore, they do not require planning permission. Most importantly, height plays a role. Polytunnels over the height of 2 metres almost always need planning permission. Keep that in mind when you plan your polytunnel. Do you really need a 2-metre high polytunnel?

However, there are exceptions to planning rules. For instance, if your commercial polytunnels are going to be located close to your neighbour's boundary, you may have to ask for planning permission. If so, getting an architect involved from the word go maybe advisable.

What if you want to refurbish an existing polytunnel frame? Finding polytunnel supplies may not be a problem, but once again, you may have to seek planning permission. It is always best to ask the question before you contract in a polytunnel supplies service to erect your new polytunnel. That being said, most planning departments within councils in the UK are open-minded about polytunnels and new business ideas. However, it is always best to ask before you start any work. 


Read More:

The Benefits of Having a Polytunnel on Your Farm

What is Britain's Favourite Cut Flowers? 

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