Caravan site licences are needed for the protection of public health and safety, to ensure that health and safety regulations are adhered to; for example adequate amenities are provided and fire precautions are in place.
In the first instance for a caravan site, please contact the Planning Department on 01423 556666 or email dds-planningenquiries@harrogate.gov.uk, as you may require planning permission.
If you allow your land to be used as a camping (tents) site by the public for more than 42 days consecutively, or 60 days in a year, you require a licence from us.
Apply for a licence
Fill in the 
Caravan and Camping Site licence application form and send it to us. There is no fee. Planning must be authorised before the licence is applied for. The application should be accompanied with a site plan (1:5000 scale), showing the layout of roads, caravans and facilities.
Guidance
Further guidance and conditions can be found by viewing the 
caravan and camping site exemptions and conditions
Touring Caravan Exemption
Exemptions from the need for a touring caravan site licence can be obtained from Natural England. This is intended for use by organisations such as The Caravan Club. Further information can be found on the 'Camping and Touring Caravan Exemption Certificate: A guide for applicants' booklet, created by Natural England.
How long will it take to receive the licence?
You can expect to hear from us normally within 60 days.
Complaints
If you have a complaint about a caravan and camping site then contact us for advice.
If this method does not work, if you are located in the UK, Consumer Direct (opens in a new window) will give you advice. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre (opens in a new window).
Related links
Caravan Site and Control of Development Act 1960 can be viewed on the Office of Public Sector Information website.