A year on from a law change allowing farmers to profit more easily from glamping revenues, an insurance expert is reminding them to check health and safety on pop-up sites.
The law, which came into force in July 2023, allows farmers and landowners in England to operate a temporary camping or glamping site for up to 60 days without planning permission.
The law change significantly reduces the burden of paperwork and planning for farmers looking to run simple, pop-up campsites.
But rural insurance risk specialist Lycetts says farmers still need to be aware of the potential pitfalls of launching new business ventures before breaking ground.
With glamping bookings up 67% in 2023, demand in the UK is at an all-time high as the public look to get back to nature without breaking the bank.
Mobile glamping structures such as yurts and bell tents that can be easily moved aren’t normally considered permanent structures and can provide a lifeline for struggling farmers looking for additional revenue streams.
James Cuthbertson, from Lycetts, said: “Inviting members of the public on to your farmland makes written health and safety risk assessments, along with measures and procedures to ensure a safe environment, an essential consideration at the design stage.
“This would include creating adequate boundaries between the working farm and public facilities, appropriate signage, hygiene facilities, emergency procedures including evacuation plans and the safe separation of visitors from animals and machinery.”
Farmers should also regularly inspect and maintain structures, pathways, and communal areas to prevent accidents and claims. This includes checking the stability and storm proofing of temporary structures.
“Public liability insurance is also essential,” he added, “and insurers may request site inspections to ensure that quality standards and requirements are being met.
"In some cases, new glamping projects may also see farmers employing staff for the first time, resulting in a new requirement for employers’ liability cover.”
