Temporary structures can provide practical solutions for events, construction projects, storage, commercial activities, and other short-term needs. However, being temporary does not automatically mean that a structure is exempt from building regulations.
Understanding building regulations for temporary structures is important before installation, particularly where a structure will remain in place for an extended period, accommodate people or involve electrical, structural or fire-safety considerations.
At Planning Build, we help property owners, developers, and businesses understand the regulatory requirements that apply to their projects and identify the appropriate approvals before work begins.
What Are Temporary Structures?
Temporary structures are buildings or structures designed to remain in place for a limited period. They can include:
- Event marquees and temporary venues
- Portable buildings and cabins
- Temporary classrooms
- Exhibition structures
- Site offices and welfare facilities
- Temporary storage buildings
- Pop-up commercial units
- Temporary stages and viewing platforms
Although these structures may not be intended to remain permanently, their design, use, location and duration can affect which regulations and approvals apply.
Do Temporary Structures Need to Comply with Building Regulations?
In England, the Building Regulations 2010 apply to the construction and extension of buildings, although certain buildings and works are exempt.
One important exemption covers certain temporary buildings that are not intended to remain where they are erected for more than 28 days. The government’s Manual to the Building Regulations identifies temporary buildings in this category as exempt.
However, the 28-day rule should not be treated as a blanket exemption for every temporary structure. Other requirements may apply depending on the structure, its intended use and its location.
If a temporary building is expected to remain in place for longer than the applicable exemption period, building regulations approval may be required. The government also makes clear that building regulations and planning permission are separate matters, meaning a project may need to consider both.
Building Regulations vs. Planning Permission for Temporary Structures
One of the most common sources of confusion is assuming that planning permission and building regulations are the same thing.
They are not.
Planning permission is primarily concerned with whether a development or change of use is acceptable in its location. It can consider factors such as appearance, land use, neighbouring properties, highways and the effect on the surrounding area.
Building regulations, on the other hand, focus on the technical performance and safety of the building. Depending on the project, this can include structural stability, fire safety, ventilation, energy efficiency, sanitation and accessibility.
This means a temporary structure could potentially have planning considerations even where building regulations approval is not required—and vice versa.
Our guide to [planning permission for temporary structures in the UK] can help explain when planning permission may be necessary.
What Do Building Regulations Cover?
Where building regulations apply, the requirements will depend on the nature and use of the temporary structure.
Structural Safety
The structure must be designed and constructed to remain stable under the loads and conditions it is expected to experience. This can include consideration of foundations, frames, roofs, connections and imposed loads.
For temporary structures exposed to wind or used by large numbers of people, appropriate structural design is particularly important.
Fire Safety
Where people will occupy the structure, fire safety can be a significant consideration. Requirements may relate to fire resistance, escape routes, emergency access and the materials used in construction.
The specific requirements will depend on the building’s design, size and intended use.
Ventilation and Indoor Conditions
Enclosed temporary buildings may need adequate ventilation to provide suitable indoor conditions and reduce risks associated with poor air quality and condensation.
Energy Efficiency
Where building regulations apply, requirements relating to energy efficiency may also need to be considered. The design may need to address insulation, heating, glazing and energy performance depending on the structure and its intended use.
Accessibility
Temporary buildings used by members of the public or other occupants may also need to consider accessibility and safe access.
When Should You Seek Professional Advice?
It is advisable to establish the regulatory position before ordering or installing a temporary structure.
This is particularly important if:
- The structure will remain in place for more than 28 days.
- It will be used as accommodation, an office, a classroom or commercial premises.
- Large numbers of people will occupy it.
- It contains electrical, heating or plumbing installations.
- The structure is substantial or structurally complex.
- It is located on or close to a sensitive or protected site.
- The project also requires planning permission.
Early advice can help you understand which approvals are needed and avoid making costly changes after installation.
How Building Regulations Approval Works
Where approval is required, you will normally need to engage an appropriate building control body. Depending on the project, this could be the local authority’s building control department or a registered private building control approver.
The application may involve technical drawings, specifications and structural information demonstrating how the proposed structure will meet the relevant requirements.
Building control may then inspect the work at appropriate stages. Once the work has been satisfactorily completed, the relevant completion documentation can provide evidence of compliance.
The exact process will depend on the type and complexity of the temporary structure.
Getting Temporary Structures Approved
‘Temporary’ does not necessarily mean ‘exempt’. The key factors include the type of structure, how it will be used, how long it will remain in place and where it is located.
There can also be additional requirements outside building regulations. For example, certain temporary event structures may be subject to local authority controls or other safety requirements. Some London authorities have specific controls for temporary structures such as marquees, flagpoles and advertising boards.
For this reason, it is important to assess the project as a whole rather than relying on a single exemption or assumption.
Expert Support for Temporary Structure Projects
Navigating planning and building regulations for temporary structures can be complicated, particularly when a project involves commercial use, public access or a longer installation period.
Planning Build provides professional advice and support across planning, design and building compliance. Our building regulation compliance services can help you understand the documentation and approval requirements relevant to your project, while our wider planning and building services provide support from initial feasibility through to project delivery.
If you are unsure whether your temporary structure requires building regulations approval, planning permission or both, getting advice early can help you avoid delays, enforcement issues and unnecessary costs.
Planning a temporary structure? Contact Planning Build to discuss your project and find out what approvals and professional support you may need.
