If you want to operate a caravan site in Colchester, you must apply for a caravan site licence unless your site qualifies for an exemption.
Step 1: Get planning permission
You must have valid planning permission for the land before applying. A licence cannot be issued without it.
Step 2: Apply for a licence
Apply to Colchester City Council’s Licensing Team. Include:
- a detailed site layout plan
- the number and type of caravans
- information on site facilities (for example, water, waste disposal, fire safety)
There is no fee to apply for or transfer a licence.
Tacit consent
If the council does not respond within the statutory timeframe, your application will be automatically approved:
- 62 days for caravan sites
- 28 days for camping sites
Licence conditions
If granted, your licence will include conditions covering:
- spacing between units
- fire precautions
- sanitation and drainage
- site maintenance and landscaping
You must display your licence on-site and comply with all conditions.
Exemptions – when you do not need a licence
Caravan sites
- use by seasonal agricultural workers
- sites occupied by travelling showmen
- sites on land owned by the occupier and used for no more than 28 days a year
- sites used by exempt organisations (for example, caravan clubs)
Camping sites
- sites used for less than 42 consecutive days, or 60 days in a year
- sites used by exempt organisations (for example, Scouts or Guides)
If you think your site may be exempt, contact the Licensing Team at eps.support@colchester.gov.uk.