The idea of waking up to a new view each day, with all your comforts packed neatly behind you, has great appeal. Many people in the UK dream of swapping bricks and mortar for life on the road in a motorhome or caravan. But before you put your house on the market and pack your bags, it’s important to understand the laws and practicalities around full-time van life in the UK. If you’re curious about council tax, legal permissions, and whether you can set up home in a campervan or caravan, this guide is for you.
Can You Legally Live in a Motorhome or Caravan in the UK?
The short answer is: yes, but with conditions. There’s no outright law against living in a motorhome, caravan, or campervan in the UK, but several laws and local regulations control how and where you do so.
If you want to make your motorhome or caravan your main residence, you’ll need to carefully consider the location and permissions:
Private land: You usually need the landowner’s permission to park long-term. If you plan to stay for months or make it your main home, the land may require change of use planning permission from the local council.
Official campsites: Most sites set limits on how long you can stay, and many close for part of the year. A few residential parks do allow permanent living but check carefully before committing.
Public highways: Overnight parking is usually allowed in some laybys or car parks, but using these spaces as your permanent address is unlikely to satisfy legal requirements and may see you moved on.
In short, while many people enjoy extended trips in their motorhomes, actually living in one full time needs some groundwork and the right permissions.
Council Tax Rules: Do You Pay Tax to Live in a Motorhome?
One common myth is that living in a motorhome or caravan means you can avoid council tax altogether. The reality depends on your circumstances:
If parked on private land: If your caravan or motorhome is your main home and remains in one fixed spot, the local authority may class it as a “dwelling” and you might have to pay council tax.
While touring: If you move regularly and don’t have a fixed base, especially if you use your vehicle mainly for leisure, you typically don’t owe council tax.
On a licensed residential site: Some parks collect council tax as part of your pitch fees.
The key thing to remember is that the council will look at where you live most of the time. If it’s in a single spot, you may become liable for council tax.
Living in a Campervan or Caravan: Practicalities and Permissions
The UK draws no legal distinction between living in a campervan, motorhome, or caravan. The same rules around landowner permission, planning regulations, and local by-laws apply to all.
Here are some things to consider:
Facilities and address: Full-time life on wheels doesn’t automatically give you a postal address, which can complicate things like GP registration, banking, or receiving bills.
Insurance: You’ll need specialist insurance if you use your vehicle as your main home.
Utilities: Accessing water, electricity, drainage, and waste disposal can be tricky outside of sites designed for full-time living.
Parking: Councils can take action against anyone living in a vehicle parked on a street or in a layby for an extended period.
Residency on someone else’s drive or land: Even with permission, this may trigger planning issues or complaints from neighbours, so check with your council.
If you see yourself living or travelling for long stretches in your own vehicle, choosing the right model is essential. Whether you want a motorhome for sale or a caravan for sale, make sure your choice will suit year-round use.
Tips for Making the Move
If you’re serious about adopting van life, keep these steps in mind:
Check your local council’s rules before making plans. Planning regulations and enforcement vary widely.
Pick your sites wisely; dedicated residential parks are rare but designed for long-term living.
Plan for post and paperwork; investigate mail forwarding services or options to register with a family member’s address.
Maintain your vehicle; full-time living means more wear and tear, so regular checks and caravan maintenance are vital.
Budget for unexpected costs; from emergency repairs to surprise pitch fees, having a financial cushion makes life on the road easier.
The Bottom Line
Living in a motorhome, campervan, or caravan in the UK can be a fantastic way to experience freedom and adventure, but it does require research and planning. Check permissions, understand your tax and planning obligations, and make sure you have everything in order before taking the leap.
If you need advice choosing the perfect vehicle or want to know more about the practicalities of full-time touring, friendly experts at Lincolnshire Motorhomes and Caravans are on hand to help. Whether you’re looking to buy, maintain, or get set for your next big journey, they’re ready to get you rolling toward your dream.