It’s a common question, especially from people who own a bit of land, or a big garden, and wonder whether they could put a holiday lodge on it. This guide gives a general overview. It isn’t legal or planning advice. Planning rules depend on where you are and what you want to do, so always check with your local council before you commit to anything.
The short answer
If you want to put a holiday lodge on your own land, you will usually need to talk to your local planning authority first, and you may well need planning permission. Using land for holiday accommodation is a change that councils generally want to consider. There can also be other permissions and rules involved, depending on your site.
If you buy a lodge on an established holiday park, the planning side is the park’s responsibility, not yours.
Putting a lodge on your own land: what to think about
If you’re considering this route, these are the kinds of questions to ask your council:
- Do I need planning permission for what I want to do? The answer depends on the land, where it is and how the lodge will be used.
- Are there any other permissions or rules that apply to my site?
- What will the council take into account? Councils may look at things like access, neighbours, the landscape and local planning policy.
- How long might it take, and what if it’s refused? Applications can take time, and they aren’t always approved first time.
The government’s guidance on planning permission is a good place to start, and your local council’s planning team can tell you how the rules apply to your land.
Why it can be complex
Getting permission for a lodge on your own land can involve plans, applications, fees, waiting and, sometimes, an appeal if the first decision goes against you. Then there’s the practical side: getting the lodge sited, connecting services and creating access. None of this is impossible, but it’s a project in itself, and there’s no guarantee of a yes.
We know the process first-hand. Our own lodge plans at Epworth Fields were approved on appeal.
The simpler route: buy on a holiday park
When you buy a lodge on a holiday park, you skip the planning project. The park deals with planning for its lodges, and you choose a lodge on a pitch that’s ready.
At Epworth Fields, you also get:
- A lodge that’s ready to use. Siting, connection, decking and furnishings are included in the price.
- A 12-month season. The park is open 12 months a year.
- An owners-only park. No letting, camping or touring, so it stays quiet.
- Fixed site fees. £3,000 plus VAT a year, frozen for 5 years.
- No council tax on a holiday lodge.
- Shared surroundings you don’t have to look after yourself, including woodland walks and an owners-only fishing lake.
Lodges start from £49,995. See what’s available on our lodges for sale page, or read our guide to buying a holiday lodge for the steps.
Own land vs holiday park: a quick comparison
| Lodge on your own land | Lodge on a holiday park | |
|---|---|---|
| Planning | Usually your job; check with your council | Handled by the park |
| Getting it ready | You arrange siting and services | At Epworth Fields, siting, connection, decking and furnishings are included |
| Yearly costs | Depends on your site | Site fee (ours is £3,000 + VAT, frozen 5 years) |
| Setting | Your own land | Shared park setting and facilities |
Paying for your lodge
You can’t buy a holiday lodge with a mortgage. Many buyers use savings, and some part-exchange what they already own. We accept lodges, motorhomes, static caravans, touring caravans and chalets.
