New rules for temporary campsites from 1 September 2026
The Welsh Government has introduced new permitted development rights for temporary campsites which change how they are operated and regulated across Wales. The changes are designed to support tourism while ensuring campsites are managed safely and responsibly.
Under the new regulations, temporary campsites for tents will generally be permitted to operate for up to 60 days per calendar year, compared with the current 28-day allowance. However, sites located within National Parks, National Landscapes and World Heritage Sites will continue to be limited to 28 days per year.
From 1 September 2026, anyone wishing to operate a temporary campsite under the new permitted development rights must first notify the Local Planning Authority to determine whether Prior Approval is required.
New notification process
When considering whether Prior Approval is required, planning authorities will assess matters such as wastewater management, refuse/waste disposal and vehicular access to ensure campsites operate safely and without unacceptable impacts to communities, the environment or the highway network.
Before opening a temporary campsite, operators will need to submit information to the Local Planning Authority, including:
- A site layout plan.
- Details of pitches and amenities.
- Information on toilet and wastewater facilities.
- Waste storage and disposal arrangements.
- Highway access arrangements.
- Proposed dates of operation.
If the Local Planning Authority have any concerns relating to wastewater, refuse/waste disposal and vehicular access details then prior approval may be required. This means you will need to submit further information so we can determine whether a full planning application is needed. We may grant prior approval unconditionally or subject to conditions reasonably related to a specific matter.
How to apply
The Prior Notification form is available on the Welsh Government’s website (external website).
An application can be submitted by sending the completed form and information to Denbighshire’s Development Management Team at planning@denbighshire.gov.uk
There is currently no planning fee for this notification process.
Further information
For more detailed information on these changes please refer to Welsh Government's Guidance Note (external website).