Planning Permission for Shipping Containers in Aldershot

Shipping containers are a flexible and practical option for storage, pop-up businesses, or temporary site facilities. If you plan to install a container in Aldershot, it’s important to understand local planning rules. The town falls under the jurisdiction of Rushmoor Borough Council, which has clear guidelines on when planning permission is required. This article explains what you need to know before placing a container on your land or commercial site.

When Is Planning Permission Required in Aldershot?

You may need planning permission in Aldershot if your shipping container meets any of the following conditions:

• It is used for business, commercial, or residential purposes
• It remains in place for more than 28 days
• The container is visible from a public road or placed in a front garden
• The site is near a listed building or within a conservation area
• Utilities (electricity, water, drainage) are connected

You may not need permission if your container is placed in a secluded rear garden or on a construction site for temporary storage. However, it’s always best to check with Rushmoor Borough Council before installation to ensure compliance.

Contact Rushmoor Borough Council

For advice, confirmation, or to submit a planning application, contact the planning team at Rushmoor Borough Council:

• Phone: 01252 398399 (Verify direct planning line if available)
• Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• Website: rushmoor.gov.uk

The planning department can assess your proposed use and location and guide you through the appropriate process. Pre-application advice is recommended for commercial or long-term uses.

Planning Considerations for Shipping Containers in Aldershot

1. Residential Placement

Containers placed in front gardens or visible locations usually require permission. However, if the container is temporarily used in a rear garden for private storage and isn’t connected to services, you may not need planning approval.

2. Commercial Use

Any use of a container as a business, such as a workshop, café, or office, requires planning permission. The council will assess traffic, accessibility, and impact on the surrounding area.

3. Conservation Areas and Historic Sites

If your property is near a listed building or in a conservation area, permission will be needed regardless of how the container is used or how long it remains on-site.

4. Structural Changes and Utilities

Connecting a container to power or water, or placing it on a permanent base, turns it into a fixed structure. These cases always require planning consent.

How to Apply for Planning Permission in Aldershot

You can apply for planning permission through the Planning Portal or via Rushmoor Borough Council’s website. Your application should include:

1. Site location and block plans
2. Photographs or architectural drawings of the container
3. Explanation of the proposed use and duration
4. Details on access, surrounding buildings, and services (if applicable)

Most applications are reviewed within 8 weeks. Consider using the pre-application advice service for a smoother process, especially for commercial or long-term installations.

FAQs About Shipping Containers in Aldershot

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

Possibly, if it’s not visible from the street, used for personal storage, and stays less than 28 days. Longer-term or visible containers usually require permission from the council.

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

Planning permission is always required for commercial uses in Aldershot. The council will assess the proposal based on location, customer access, and land use policies.

Do temporary containers on construction sites need permission?

In many cases, no, if the container is removed once construction is complete. However, long-term or serviced containers may still require planning approval.

How can I avoid planning issues with my container?

Speak with the council early, especially for longer-term or visible installations. Provide detailed plans and consider using the pre-application advice service to identify and resolve issues upfront.

Summary

In Aldershot, planning permission is required for many shipping container uses, especially those involving commercial activity, long-term placement, or locations in conservation areas. Rushmoor Borough Council offers helpful advice and support to guide you through the planning process. Always check before proceeding with your container installation to avoid delays or penalties.

Need a Shipping Container in Aldershot?

At Shipping Containers of Southampton, we supply quality new and used containers throughout Aldershot and North Hampshire. Whether you need secure on-site storage or a custom container conversion, we’re here to help.

New and used quality shipping containers

We keep new and used shipping containers at our Southampton depot, giving you options. Our goal is to help the people of Hampshire and surrounding areas access the containers they need at the best possible price with quick delivery times.

Use our quote form or contact our container team on 0330 013 0636