Which Certificates Do I Require

by MIKE
(YORKSHIRE UK)

Simple guide for campsite and private-land catering setups

Simple guide for campsite and private-land catering setups

We own a campsite and are converting an old caravan into a catering van. This will remain on our land and not be used anywhere else. Do i still need to register it as a mobile catering van,and do i still require the normal certificates. ie Gas certificate etc

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Nov 19, 2025
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starstarstarstarstar 		Do I need to register a catering caravan if it never moves?
by: MobCater

Hello,

Yes — even if your converted caravan never leaves your land, you still need to register it as a food business with your local council and you do need the same safety certificates.

Do you need to register it?

Yes.
Any premises where food is stored, prepared, cooked, or sold must be registered with the local authority — even if it is:

stationary

on private land

not open to the public road

only serving your own guests or campsite visitors

The council simply classifies it as a food business premises, not specifically a "mobile van."

Do you still need gas and safety certificates?

Yes.

Because you are preparing and serving hot food, you are legally required to meet the same safety standards as a mobile catering unit:

You will need:

Gas Safety Certificate (CP44) — from a Gas Safe engineer qualified for LPG & mobile catering

Fire safety equipment (extinguishers + fire blanket)

Electrical inspection if using 230V equipment

Food hygiene procedures (allergies, temperature control, cleaning schedule)

Handwashing facilities and proper wash-up facilities

Ventilation suitable for cooking operations

So to End Summary

Even though your catering caravan stays on your campsite, it still counts as a food business and must be:

Registered with the council (no fee)

Inspected by Environmental Health

Fitted with proper LPG, gas, electrical and food safety compliance

You are treated the same as a normal catering trailer — only the mobility changes, not the legal requirements.

Hope this helps, best of luck

Please note - Not all caravans can legally or safely be converted into catering units. Many fail gas, ventilation, fire safety, and hygiene requirements. Before converting, you must consult both a Gas Safe Mobile Catering Engineer and a catering trailer manufacturer to confirm the structure is suitable.

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