Planning Permission
Need planning permission for a shipping container in Newcastle? Learn Newcastle City Council rules, when permission is needed, & how to apply.

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Planning Permission for Shipping Containers in Newcastle

Shipping containers are a great option if you need storage, a temporary business space, or site facilities. If you're thinking about putting a container in Newcastle, it's vital to know the local planning rules. Newcastle City Council sets the rules for when you need permission. This article tells you what you should know before you put a container on your property or business site.

When Do You Need Planning Permission in Newcastle?

You might need planning permission in Newcastle if your shipping container:

  • Is used for business, commercial, or living purposes
  • Stays in place for more than 28 days
  • Can be seen from a public road or is in a front garden
  • Is near a listed building or in a conservation area
  • Has utilities (electricity, water, drainage) connected

You probably don't need permission if your container is in a private back garden or on a building site for short-term storage. But, it's always a good idea to check with Newcastle City Council before you install it, just to be sure you're following the rules.

Contact Newcastle City Council

To get advice, confirm information, or apply for planning permission, get in touch with the planning team at Newcastle City Council:

  • Phone: 0191 278 7878 (Check if this is the direct planning line)
  • Website: newcastle.gov.uk

The planning department can look at how you plan to use the container and where you want to put it. They can also guide you through the process. Getting advice before you apply is a good idea, especially for business or long-term uses.

Planning Considerations for Shipping Containers in Newcastle

1. Residential Placement

Containers in front gardens or places where people can see them usually need permission. But, if you're using a container temporarily in a back garden for your own storage and it doesn't have any services connected, you might not need planning approval.

2. Commercial Use

If you're using a container as a business, like a workshop, café, or office, you'll need planning permission. The council will think about traffic, how easy it is to get to, and how it affects the area.

3. Conservation Areas and Historic Sites

If your property is close to a listed building or in a conservation area, you'll need permission no matter how you use the container or how long it's there.

4. Structural Changes and Utilities

If you connect a container to electricity or water, or put it on a permanent base, it becomes a permanent structure. These situations always need planning consent.

How to Apply for Planning Permission in Newcastle

You can apply for planning permission through the Planning Portal or on Newcastle City Council’s website. Your application should include:

  1. The location of the site and layout plans
  2. Photos or drawings of the container
  3. An explanation of how you plan to use it and for how long
  4. Details about access, nearby buildings, and services (if relevant)

Most applications are reviewed in about 8 weeks. Think about using the pre-application advice service to make the process easier, especially for business or long-term installations.

FAQs About Shipping Containers in Newcastle

Can I put a container in my garden without planning permission?

Maybe, if it can't be seen from the street, you're using it for personal storage, and it's only there for less than 28 days. Containers that are there longer or can be seen usually need permission from the council.

What if I want to use the container for a business?

You always need planning permission for business uses in Newcastle. The council will look at the proposal based on the location, customer access, and land use rules.

Do temporary containers on construction sites need permission?

Usually not, if the container is removed when the building work is done. But, containers that are there for a long time or have services connected might still need planning approval.

How can I avoid planning issues with my container?

Talk to the council early on, especially if you're planning a long-term or visible installation. Give them detailed plans and think about using the pre-application advice service to find and fix any problems early.

Summary

In Newcastle, you often need planning permission for shipping containers, especially if you're using them for business, putting them in place for a long time, or placing them in conservation areas. Newcastle City Council offers advice and support to help you with the planning process. Always check before you start your container installation to avoid problems.

Need a Shipping Container in Newcastle?

At Shipping Containers of Leeds, we sell high-quality new and used containers all over Newcastle and Tyne and Wear. Whether you need secure storage on-site or a custom container conversion, we're here to help.

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Use our quote form or contact our container team on 0330 0130 636 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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