Code of conduct for caravan occupiers

This code is for anyone staying in a caravan in the borough of Darlington.

It applies at all times, even to unauthorised camp sites.

If the code is not followed, it will be used as evidence to evict from the land. Not following the code at a site that has been allowed to stay at an unauthorised site is likely to lead to eviction action.

Caravan occupiers must:

1. Keep caravan groups small. Not to exceed six caravans at any one time
2. Not create a road hazard or any health and safety hazard
3. Not dump waste. You must provide evidence that proper arrangements have been made for all waste, including human waste
4. Not burn rubbish that gives off toxic fumes or cause nuisance to neighbours or passers by
5. Park vehicles safely and follow the law
6. Not damage fixtures, fittings, trees or hedges
7. Keep the site clean
8. Not threaten or try to intimidate council staff, other agencies, neighbours or other members of the public
9. Keep all animals under proper control
10. Not occupy the same land again for at least 12 months
11. Once the caravan moves on, move at least two miles from the site
12. Not engage in any form of criminal activity or anti social behaviour
13. Report incidents of unlawful dumping in the area
14. Identify a spokesperson (with deputy) to represent the group, if requested by a council officer

Camp locations that will not be tolerated:

1. A park, public open space in regular use, public playing fields, sports and recreation grounds
2. A village green or other open area in a residential area
3. Public car parking facilities at a hospital, school, supermarket or leisure facility
4. An industrial estate, retail park or business park (this includes a site being built)
5. A site where pollution from vehicles or dumping could damage ground water or watercourses
6. A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) 
7. A public highway or designated highway land
8. A location where there could be serious risk to the health or safety of the caravan occupants. For example, a derelict area with toxic waste or other serious ground pollution or the verge of a busy road where fast traffic is a danger to children.

Criteria used when considering if to evict:

1. Compliance with the code of conduct
2. Has unacceptable antisocial behaviour has occurred?
3. Environmental impact
4. Camp location is not tolerated
5. The welfare and social needs of the caravan occupiers
6. No toilet, washing or drinking water at the location
7. Are there caravan pitches anywhere in the Tees Valley/Durham County/North Yorkshire?
8. Human rights and race relations laws
9. Complaints from nearby residents - are they reasonable and justified?
10. Can the lawful tenant or occupier use the land as intended?
11. Is the occupation negative to the interests of the public?
12. The financial costs to the council in the short and long term. Any costs to affected land owners and people having a legal right to occupy the land

Information on unauthorised encampments