Do I Need Planning Permission for Agricultural Buildings?
Planning permission is almost always required before you construct an agricultural building. This is because they’re classed as “permanent structures” since they contribute to the long-term operation of your farm. However, there are sometimes exceptions which lessen or dismiss the need for planning permission. So, what are they?
What Exceptions Affect the Need for Planning Permission on Agricultural Buildings?
Depending on the development rights you have on your land, you may not need planning permission to install an agricultural building at all.
According to Gov.UK, if your farm is 5 hectares or more, you can erect, extend, and alter a building without applying for permission, under Permitted Development Rights. You can also legally conduct excavations and engineering operations for agricultural purposes (with some exceptions).
These exceptions exist only for buildings measured below a particular size. Planning permission is mandatory if:
- The building exceeds 75 metres distance from a group of principle farm buildings.
- The building exceeds 12 metres in height.
You will also need planning permission if you repurpose your building in any way not related to agricultural activity.
A reputable agricultural buildings installer will understand the planning requirements for your building, but if you’re unsure, contact your local council for clarification.
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What are the Agricultural Building Planning Permission Regulations?
Numerous regulations detail a series of guidelines you must follow to acquire planning permission for an agricultural building in the UK, including:
- Town and Country Planning Act (1990)
This act establishes the requirements for planning permissions for various types of buildings throughout England and Wales. It considers the best interests of the surrounding community, the marketability of the land and the potential environmental damage your building could cause.
- Local Development Plan (LDP)
This regulation guides decisions on development proposals while considering the needs of the surrounding area. It dictates where development should be restricted and where it should take place. The Local Development Plan will determine whether installing your agricultural building on your farm benefits the wider community.
- Conservation Areas and Designated Land
These restrictions only apply if your land is in a conservation area or designated landscape. Generally, you will need these permissions for every external change you make to new and existing buildings.
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
An Environmental Impact Assessment is essential if you plan on constructing a large agricultural building that may significantly impact its surrounding environment. These assessments ensure that the land, wildlife, and nature are as undisturbed as possible throughout construction and after the building is complete.
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Does the Location of My Agricultural Building Affect the Need for Planning Permission?
Yes. Your plans could be subject to even more regulatory assessments depending on where you intend to erect your structure. There are several things to consider before determining where your building will go, including:
- Zoning Regulations – There are designated zones for agricultural use, which may result in fewer or more requirements that you have to adhere to.
- Green Belt Designation – This is in place to protect vast, open landscapes and restrict construction projects to maintain them.
- Conservation Areas and Protected Landscapes – Development plans in these areas are usually subject to additional restrictions and scrutiny.
- Impact on the Surrounding Environment – This includes views, wildlife habitats and cultural heritage, which will be assessed when you plan to install a new building.
- Infrastructure and Services – Will you need a new road to access your building? Waste management facilities? Utilities? If so, you may find it more difficult to have your development approved.
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What Makes a Building a “Permanent Structure”?
There are a few qualifying factors that separate permanent structures from temporary buildings. All of which, boils down to what you intend to use your agricultural building for.
- The Intended Use and Duration of Use
If you plan to use your agricultural building for long periods or as a housing facility for livestock, your building is inherently deemed a permanent structure.
- The Materials Used to Manufacture it
Constructing temporary buildings using the same materials used for permanent buildings is a waste of time and money. Concrete, steel, brick, and timber are comparatively high-cost materials and would only be misspent on temporary structures. Temporary buildings are often constructed using plastic and lightweight metal frames, so they’re easy to dismantle and don’t cost an arm and a leg.
- Utility Connections and Services
Permanent structures are often connected to large water, electricity and sewage systems, whereas temporary structures would use short-term alternatives. These alternatives include generators and water tanks that can be disconnected easily.
- Design Flexibility
Permanent structures are often built with expansion in mind and include load-bearing walls and foundation systems which support the building’s long-term stability. Temporary structures tend to prioritise ease of assembly and disassembly to fulfil their temporary purpose.
Kit Buildings Direct Will Design Your Agricultural Building With Planning Permission in Mind
We have over 40 years of experience in designing agricultural buildings of various sizes for a range of purposes. From crop storage to livestock housing, we will manufacture a structure to your exact specifications, adhering to planning permission requirements.
If you’re looking to install a new agricultural building, consider Kit Buildings Direct as your one-stop shop. We use fully CE-marked steel, innovative CAD technology and our own fleet of trucks to design and deliver your agricultural building.
We supply our structures as kits or start from the ground up to provide the flexibility you need.
Contact us now to discover what Kit Buildings Direct can do for you.
