I Have a Catering Trailer on Private Land

by S driver
(Ramsgate kent )


I have a food trailer on private land and have had the council threaten enforcement for me to move by the 9th May and that I don’t have planning permission for this trailer I was under the impression being a mobile trailer that I did not need this permission as I have my health and hygiene level 2 public liability insurance, etc. Is there anything I can do to stop the council forcing me off the land as I have the owners consent to trade.

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Mar 27, 2025
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by: MobCater

It’s frustrating when you’re just trying to run your business, and the council throws a curveball at you. Many mobile caterers assume that because their trailer is mobile, they don’t need planning permission—but the reality is a bit more complicated. Let’s break it down and see what you can do.

Why Is the Council Threatening Enforcement?

Even though your trailer is on private land with the owner’s consent, councils can still enforce planning laws if they believe the trailer is a "permanent structure" or causing an issue. The key factors they consider are:

How long the trailer stays in one place – If it’s there continuously, it may be considered fixed rather than mobile.

Is it "readily moveable"? – If it has wheels and can be hitched up and moved easily, this helps your case.

Is it used as a business premises? – If it operates regularly on-site, the council may argue it needs planning permission.

Impact on the area – If it’s affecting parking, traffic, noise, or local amenities, the council might get involved.

What Can You Do to Fight This?

Check the Official Complaint

Ask the council exactly why they’re saying you need planning permission.

Request a formal enforcement notice—this must detail their reasons and the legal basis.

Challenge Their Decision (If Possible)

If your trailer has wheels, is not permanently fixed, and can be moved, argue that it remains a mobile unit and does not require planning permission.

If it’s in use for less than 28 days at a time, you might be covered under "temporary use" exemptions (but check your local council rules).

If similar businesses operate in the area without planning permission, use this as a precedent.

Apply for a "Lawful Development Certificate"

This is a legal way to confirm you don’t need planning permission.

If your trailer is genuinely mobile, this certificate can prove it’s within legal use.

Negotiate With the Council

If enforcement is based on concerns (traffic, complaints, etc.), see if you can address them—maybe adjust trading hours or location slightly.

Sometimes, councils just want a paper trail, so offering to submit a retrospective planning application could buy you time.

Get Professional Advice

Speak to a planning consultant or a solicitor specializing in mobile catering law.

Contact the Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS)—they should have the experience to help deal with these issues.

Last Resort: Move & Relocate

If it looks like the council won’t back down, moving the trailer—even temporarily—might be the best option while you figure things out. You can also try:

Finding another private location where the council is more lenient.

Rotating between multiple sites to avoid a "permanent" classification.

Final Thoughts

You’re not the first mobile caterer to deal with this, and you won’t be the last. Councils can be tricky, but if you stand your ground, know your rights, and take the right steps, you have a good chance of staying put—or at least getting more time. These are a few suggestions you can try.

Best of luck

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