Caravan and camping site licence

Summary of requirements 

To run a caravan and camping site you need a licence from Wandsworth Council.

Conditions may be attached to a licence to cover any of the following:

• restricting when caravans can be on the site for human habitation or
• restricting the number of caravans that can be on the site at any one time
• controlling the types of caravans on the site
• controlling the positioning of the caravans or regulating the use of other structures and vehicles including tents
• to ensure steps are taken enhance the land, including planting/replanting bushes and trees
• fire safety and fire fighting controls
• to ensure that sanitary and other facilities, services and equipment are supplied and maintained

Eligibility criteria 

The applicant must be entitled to use the land as a caravan site.
Licences will not be issued to applicants who have had a site licence revoked within three years of the current application.

Application evaluation process 

Applications must be in writing, should detail the land that the application concerns and any other information required by the council.

Will tacit consent apply?

Yes. This means that you will be able to act as though your application is granted if you have not heard from the local authority by the end of the target completion period.

What can I do if my application is refused?

In the first instance, please contact:

Email: privatehousing@wandsworth.gov.uk

If a licence holder is refused an application to alter a condition, they may appeal to:

The appeal must be made within 28 days of the written notification of the refusal and a notice of appeal must be served on the Council. 

What if I am not happy with a condition imposed? 

Please contact Wandsworth Council at the address above in the first instance.

If a licence holder wishes to appeal against a condition attached to a licence they may appeal to South Western Magistrates' Court (address above).

The appeal must be made within 28 days of the licence being issued.

The Council may alter conditions at any time but must give licence holders the opportunity to make representations about the proposed changes. If a licence holder disagrees with the alterations they may appeal to the South Western Magistrates' Court at the above address.

The appeal must be made within 28 days of the written notification of the alteration and a notice of appeal must be served on the council.

What if I have a query about my licence?

If you have any questions relating to your issued licence, please contact the Private Housing section:

Email: privatehousing@wandsworth.gov.uk

European Services Directive

If you think that the Council has not complied with the European Services Directive by imposing requirements or conditions in respect of your application that are discriminatory, unfair, or disproportionate, please contact:

Email: solvit@bis.gsi.gov.uk

Consumer complaints about a caravan or camping site

We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the trader by you - preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked, if you are located in the UK, Consumer Direct will give you advice. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre.