Are you thinking of keeping horses in a field? If so, you may be wondering if you need planning permission to do so. In this article, we’ll discuss the various considerations to be taken into account when it comes to keeping horses in fields, including whether planning permission is required.
Planning Permission Considerations
When it comes to keeping horses in fields, the answer to whether or not you need planning permission is not always clear-cut. It will ultimately depend on a variety of factors, including the size of the field, the type of use, and the local bylaws in place.
Size of the Field
One of the most important considerations when it comes to planning permission for horses in fields is the size of the field. In some cases, planning permission may be required if the field is larger than a certain size. This varies from one area to the next, so it is important to check with your local authorities to determine if this is the case in your particular area.
Type of Use
Another factor to consider when it comes to planning permission for horses in fields is the type of use. If the field is going to be used for commercial purposes, such as a riding school, then planning permission will likely be required. However, if the field is only going to be used for private, recreational use, then planning permission may not be necessary.
Local Bylaws
In addition to the size of the field and the type of use, it’s also important to consider any local bylaws that may be in place. Depending on where you live, there may be restrictions in place regarding the keeping of horses in fields. These restrictions can vary from one area to the next, so it is important to check with your local authorities to determine if any such restrictions exist in your area.
Other Considerations When Keeping Horses in Fields
In addition to planning permission, there are a few other considerations to take into account when it comes to keeping horses in fields. These include access to water, fencing, and the type of grass and vegetation in the field.
Access to Water
When it comes to keeping horses in fields, it is important to ensure that they have access to fresh, clean water. This can be achieved by providing a water trough or other water supply in the field.
Fencing
It is also important to ensure that the field is properly fenced to keep the horses safe. This can be achieved by using a combination of high-quality fencing, gates, and other safety measures.
Grass and Vegetation
Finally, it is important to ensure that the field has the right type of grass and vegetation to keep the horses healthy. This includes ensuring that the grass is not overgrazed, and that there is a variety of different grass and vegetation types in the field.
Benefits of Keeping Horses in Fields
Keeping horses in fields can be beneficial in a variety of ways. For example, it allows the horses to be in a natural environment and can help to keep them healthy and happy. It can also provide a more cost-effective alternative to keeping horses in a stable or other enclosed area.
Tips for Keeping Horses in Fields
If you are considering keeping horses in a field, there are a few tips that can help to ensure their safety and wellbeing. These include:
- Provide plenty of fresh water – make sure that the horses have access to fresh, clean water at all times.
- Fence the field properly – use a combination of high-quality fencing, gates, and other safety measures to ensure that the horses are safe.
- Provide the right type of grass and vegetation – ensure that the field has the right type of grass and vegetation to keep the horses healthy.
- Check with local authorities – check with your local authorities to determine if any restrictions are in place regarding the keeping of horses in fields.
Conclusion
In conclusion, keeping horses in fields can be a great way to ensure their safety and wellbeing. However, it is important to ensure that the field meets all necessary regulations and is properly fenced and provided with the right type of grass and vegetation. Additionally, it is important to check with your local authorities to determine if planning permission is required in your area.
References
- RSPCA. “Keeping Horses in Fields”. RSPCA. Accessed December 19, 2020. https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/horses/keeping/fields.
- The British Horse Society. “Field Management”. The British Horse Society. Accessed December 19, 2020. https://www.bhs.org.uk/our-charity/advice-and-information/field-management.
- Defra. “Planning Permission and Horses”. Defra. Accessed December 19, 2020. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/230329/pb13907-planning-permission-horses-140313.pdf.