Planning Permission to Store a Shipping Container in Bury

Do You Need Planning Permission?

In many cases, planning permission isn’t required when a container is placed on private land for temporary use and doesn’t change the land’s primary use or overall character. However, permission may be required if the container is intended for long-term or permanent use, materially affects the site’s appearance, or creates amenity concerns (for example, in sensitive locations or where visual impact is significant).

For case-specific guidance, please contact the Bury Council Planning Department or refer to our local overview on Bury planning permission.

Do you need a container while you confirm permission? Explore sizes: 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft.

Placing a Container on Public Land

If a container (or site cabin) will sit on public land in Bury, such as a road, pavement, verge, or any council-managed space, you’ll need a highway licence before it’s placed. Licences help the council manage safety, traffic flow, and access for pedestrians and vehicles.

Typical charges vary by road type and location. Ensure approval is in place to avoid fines or removal.

Apply via the council: Bury Council – Planning & Licensing. For end-to-end assistance with siting and paperwork, contact our local team at Bury Container Transport.

Indicative Fees for Public-Highway Licences

Guide rates for placing a container on the public highway in Bury (7-day licence):

• Non-traffic-sensitive roads: £15.00–£40.00
• Traffic-sensitive roads: £20.00–£50.00
• Town centres: £30.00–£80.00

For current fees and conditions, check Bury Council’s pages: Planning & Highways licences. (Charges may change; always verify before applying.)

Placing a Container on Private Land

You don’t usually need a highway licence for private land. However, longer-term installations or those that significantly impact appearance may trigger planning controls or building regulations. Where a container fronts a road or sits near boundaries, consider screening, colour, and placement to reduce visual impact.

When in doubt, get written confirmation from the planning team. It’s the simplest way to prevent disputes and delays.

For sizing and suitability, please refer to: 10ft containers, 20ft containers, and 40ft containers.

Good Practice Before You Apply

1. Define your use case: Storage, temporary site office, or conversion? Duration matters.
2. Select the right size: Choose a unit that suits your space and accessibility needs. (We can pre-check access.)
3. Plan siting & appearance: Neutral paint, rear siting, and screening reduce visual impact.
4. Confirm delivery/cranage: Our HIAB team can advise on safe placement and ground conditions.

Browse local services at Bury container services or arrange transport via Bury container transport.