Shipping containers are becoming a popular alternative to traditional structural buildings, with their many uses including storage solutions, permanent residences, home offices, garden rooms, workshops and home extensions. In fact, the global container homes market alone is expected to reach $73,070.5 million by 2025.
However, if you’re planning on using a shipping container for your next project, it’s worth finding out whether you’ll need planning permission before you get started.
Council regulations for shipping containers in the UK
You may need to seek planning as well as other specific types of permission from your local authority in advance of beginning your project.
Planning permission for shipping containers
In general, if you’re using a shipping container as a permanent structure such as an office, home or commercial venture, you will need to get planning permission. If it’s being used for temporary storage, a site office, or for agricultural purposes, you might not. Approval is considered on a case-by-case basis, and regulations can vary depending on the location.
Building regulations for shipping containers
Building regulations approval might also be needed if you’re converting your shipping container into a new building, or using it to extend an existing one.
To gain permission, you’ll need to send details of the plan and specifications to your local building control team. They will review the information, and if they’re happy it complies with regulations, they’ll send you a building regulations compliance certificate.
Other permissions
Other permissions may also be required, such as a ‘change of use’ or a ‘lawful development certificate’. Talk to your local planning authority before you make any applications to ensure you’re following the correct guidelines.
When do I need planning permission for a storage container?
You will usually need planning permission for storage containers that are converted into permanent structures, such as new builds and extensions. You may also need it if the unit is being used near a listed building, in areas of outstanding natural beauty, or conservation or Green Belt areas. If this is the case, you will need to meet certain legal requirements.
Factors that impact planning permission for a shipping container
Your local councils will bear several factors in mind before deciding whether or not to grant planning permission. By understanding them in advance, you can determine whether or not you need to apply, and adjust your plans to help the process run smoother.
How long you intend to have the container
If you’re using the shipping container for 28 days or less – as a short-term office or storage space for example – you’re unlikely to need permission. You may need permission for anything longer, but ask your local council about their specific rules.
The size of the shipping container
The size of the finished conversion will also impact whether you need planning permission. In general, if it covers more than half the land of the existing property, is taller than the closest building, or is connected to gas and electricity supplies, you will probably need planning permission.
What the container will be used for
The container’s intended use will heavily impact whether or not you need permission. Any permanent usage, including a home or office, will likely need to be approved, as will storage facilities using multiple containers.
Where the container will be located
If you plan on using the container unit on Green Belt or conservation land, near a listed building, or in an area of natural beauty, not only might you need permission, but you may also need to blend it into the surroundings and fulfil other rigorous requirements. If the container is being used temporarily on your own land, however, permission might not be required.
The scale of the project
You’re more likely to need planning permission for a large-scale project that has the potential to create excessive noise or traffic, creates an obstruction, or results in loss of privacy or natural light for nearby properties. It’s always a good idea to share the plans with your neighbours before embarking on the work, then make reasonable adjustments if suggested.
The local environment
The local environment will have a large impact on whether you’re likely to gain planning permission. As already mentioned, you will need planning permission to build a permanent structure on Green Belt or conservation land. However, a shipping container conversion in a business district will also have different regulations from one in a residential area. As such, you’ll need to ensure your structure aligns with local requirements.
How can I improve my chances of approval for planning permission?
By taking the following into account, you may be able to improve your chances of gaining planning permission for a shipping container structure.
Paint your container
Painting your shipping container can improve its appearance whilst also helping it last longer. Painting it green or camouflage, for example, may help it blend into natural surroundings, which can work to your advantage if you’re building in a Green Belt or conservation area. You can even paint your container in your brand colours if it’s part of your business.
Clad your container
Cladding your shipping container is another way to enhance its appearance and give it a professional finish, which is ideal if it’s likely to be a permanent solution that’s on view to the public. Our shipping container conversions can include wooden, aluminium, and other types of cladding, irrespective of the size and scale of the project.
Hide your container
If planning permission might be difficult to obtain in the desired location, keeping it out of sight from the public eye may well improve your chances. You could surround it by fencing or hedgerows, for example, to keep it well hidden.
Bury your container
Similar to hiding it, you could even consider burying the container and laying a surface, such as turf, over the top. Whilst you may still need planning permission, it might prove easier to obtain.
Just remember to plan your entrance and exit points. Plus – as you won’t be able to install any windows underground – you’ll need to compensate for the lack of natural sunlight with efficient lighting of your own.
Do you need planning permission to live in a shipping container?
A shipping container can be a safe and comfortable residence if transformed correctly. However, if you’re converting a shipping container into a home on a long-term basis, you will need planning permission before you begin the project. If you’re using it as temporary accommodation, you might not need permission.
Unsure if living in shipping containers is safe? Read everything you need to know about the safety of shipping containers as living spaces in our detailed guide Are Shipping Containers Safe to Live In?
Can I put a shipping container on private land?
You can put a shipping container on private land, but you will still need to apply for planning permission if the unit is being used as a permanent structure, such as a home office or extension.
Can I put a shipping container in my garden?
You can locate a shipping container in your garden, but whether or not you need planning permission still depends on the factors already mentioned, such as whether it’s a temporary or permanent structure. Sometimes, shipping containers are used as alternatives to garden sheds. Other uses include vehicle storage, garden rooms, dens, studios, workshops, and home offices.
Can I put a shipping container on my driveway?
Installing a shipping container in your driveway as a garage, for example, is possible. However, if your drive is in view of the road, local residents may not approve, so it’s advisable to discuss it with them first. If you’re using it for temporary storage, this may not be as much of an issue, and you may not need planning permission either.
The bottom line
Shipping containers are incredibly versatile, and a fantastic way of creating extra space without the time and costs of a new build. However, if you’re using one as a permanent structure, you are very likely to need planning permission.
By contacting your local council and being aware of the regulations before you draw up your final plans, you can adapt your project accordingly, and improve your chances of getting the stamp of approval.
