We are often asked about shepherd's huts and planning permission.  It's not as simple as 'if it's on wheels you can put one anywhere'  On that basis someone could put small wheels on a 40' shipping container or similar and get away with it, and that wouldn't be right!  The basic position seems to be that a shepherd's hut can be sited in the curtilage of a house without planning permission, so long as it's use is incidental to the enjoyment of the house.  Many shepherd's huts are in use across the country for a range of uses on that basis.  Some houses are governed by listed building status or national parks etc. and in this case it may be wise to approach someone for a professional opinion.  We have had customers who own fields away from their homes and have easily gained planning permission if it is needed or they have been given a Certificate of lawful use by the local council which gives an official opinion that it is OK; useful if neighbours need reassurance.

In some cases, where planning permission would never be granted for more usual development due to landslip or flooding, a shepherd's hut (being easily moved and well above ground level) offers a really good solution to the problem that sits well in most situations.

A well proportioned traditional looking shepherd's hut looks right in the landscape and it is unlikely to offend anyone.  In the rare cases where full planning permission is needed there should be no problems.   It is, quite rightly, a potential change of use of a piece of land that rocks the boat not the physical appearance of such a wonderful feature of the countryside.