Planning Permission for Shipping Containers in Chichester

Shipping containers are a practical solution in Chichester, whether for extra storage, a pop-up retail unit, or on-site office space. However, their installation is subject to planning regulations. Chichester District Council governs local planning matters, and planning permission may be required depending on your container’s location, use, and visibility. 

When Is Planning Permission Required in Chichester?

You will likely need planning permission for a shipping container in Chichester if it meets any of the following conditions:

• The container is used for commercial or residential purposes
• It is installed for more than 28 consecutive days
• The container is visible from the public highway or affects the character of the area
• It is located near a listed building or within a conservation area
• The container is connected to electricity, water, or other utilities

Containers used temporarily on private land or construction sites for storage may be exempt from planning permission. However, you should confirm this with the council before installation.

Contact Chichester District Council

To check your planning requirements or begin an application, contact the planning team at Chichester District Council:

• Phone: 01243 785166 (Verify direct planning line if available)
• Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• Website: chichester.gov.uk

The council offers support and pre-application advice to help you understand your obligations. Early contact can reduce the risk of delays or enforcement action.

Key Planning Factors to Consider in Chichester

1. Residential Installations

If your container is placed in a front garden, driveway, or visible location, you will likely need planning permission. Rear garden installations for short-term personal storage may be exempt, provided they don’t impact neighbours or local character.

2. Commercial Use

Using a container for a shop, office, or hospitality venue requires planning permission. Chichester District Council will consider land use, customer access, and impact on local amenities.

3. Heritage and Conservation Areas

Chichester is rich in heritage, and any container placed in a conservation area or near a listed building will need special approval. Even temporary containers are subject to these protections.

4. Utility Connections and Foundations

Containers connected to utilities or mounted on a permanent foundation are considered permanent structures and will always require formal planning consent.

How to Apply for Planning Permission in Chichester

You can apply through the Planning Portal or directly via Chichester District Council’s website. Your application should include:

1. A location and block plan showing where the container will be placed
2. Details of the container (size, design, colour, and materials)
3. Description of the proposed use and expected duration
4. Information on service connections, surrounding properties, and access

Applications typically take up to 8 weeks to process. If your proposal is in a sensitive area, using the council’s pre-application service is advised to improve your chances of success.

FAQs About Shipping Containers in Chichester

Can I use a shipping container for storage in my garden?

Possibly. You may not need permission if it’s temporary, used privately, and placed discreetly. If it’s visible or used long-term, you’ll likely require approval from the council.

Do I need permission to run a business from a container?

Yes. Commercial uses of any kind require planning permission. The council will evaluate the suitability of the location and the potential impact on nearby properties.

Are there stricter rules near listed buildings?

Yes. Planning controls are tighter in areas near listed buildings or in conservation zones. In these cases, containers must have planning consent regardless of size or use.

What if I’ve already installed a container without permission?

You may need to submit a retrospective planning application. If permission is denied, you could be required to remove the container and restore the site.

Summary

Installing a shipping container in Chichester requires careful consideration of local planning laws. Planning permission is typically needed if your container is visible, used long-term, modified, or located in a protected area. Chichester District Council provides clear guidance and support to help you through the process. Always check before proceeding to avoid enforcement action.

Need a Shipping Container in Chichester?

At Shipping Containers of Southampton, we supply high-quality new and used shipping containers throughout Chichester and West Sussex. Whether you need a short-term storage unit or a fully converted commercial container, our team is ready 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