Do You Need Planning Permission for a Bunded Oil Tank in the UK?

If you’re planning to install a bunded oil tank at a residential property, one of the most common questions is whether planning permission is required. In many cases, the answer is no — but only if the installation meets specific UK planning and safety rules.

Understanding permitted development rights, placement distances, and special exceptions is essential. Getting it wrong can lead to enforcement action, relocation costs, or compliance issues later on.

This guide explains when planning permission is required for a bunded oil tank, when it isn’t, and how to stay on the right side of UK regulations.

Understanding Permitted Development for Oil Tanks

Most domestic oil tank installations in England fall under permitted development rights, meaning you can install a bunded oil tank without submitting a planning application — provided certain conditions are met.

These rules are designed to balance household needs with environmental protection. Official government guidance on oil storage, safety, and legal responsibilities is available via the UK government’s oil storage regulations page:
https://www.gov.uk/oil-storage-regulations-and-safety/home

This guidance covers environmental risk, spill prevention, and why bunded oil tanks are now widely recommended for domestic use.

Oil Tank Placement Rules You Must Follow

Even where planning permission isn’t required, strict positioning rules still apply. These distances are crucial, as failing to meet them can invalidate permitted development rights.

In general, a domestic bunded oil tank must be:

Positioned at least 1.5 metres from property boundaries
Installed a minimum of 1 metre from buildings, eaves, or combustible structures
Located away from drains, watercourses, and areas prone to flooding

These rules help reduce fire risk and prevent oil pollution, which can be expensive to remediate and legally complex if it occurs.

When Planning Permission Is Required

There are several situations where planning permission is required for a bunded oil tank, even at a domestic property.

You will normally need to apply if:

The property is listed or located in a conservation area
The oil tank is positioned in front of the principal elevation of the house
The installation involves commercial oil storage or unusually large capacity
The tank significantly alters land use or visual impact

The Planning Portal provides detailed guidance on these scenarios, including diagrams and common examples:
https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/common-projects/fuel-tanks/planning-permission

Checking this before installation can save time and prevent delays.

Why Bunded Oil Tanks Are the Preferred Option

Bunded oil tanks include an outer protective layer designed to capture leaks and spills, significantly reducing environmental risk. Because of this, they are now the preferred choice for many homeowners, insurers, and local authorities.

You can view a full range of compliant domestic options in our bunded oil tanks category:
https://www.oiltanksupermarket.co.uk/product-category/bunded-oil-tanks/

For properties with limited outdoor space, a 1000 litre slimline plastic bunded oil tank is a popular solution, offering full compliance without dominating the exterior of the property:
https://www.oiltanksupermarket.co.uk/product/1000-litre-slimline-plastic-bunded-oil-tank/

Always Check with Your Local Authority

While national guidance covers most scenarios, local councils can apply additional requirements in sensitive areas. If your property is rural, near water, or subject to special planning controls, it’s always worth confirming before installation.

A quick check with your local planning authority can prevent costly mistakes and ensure your oil tank installation is fully compliant from day one.

Final Thoughts

In most cases, a domestic bunded oil tank can be installed without planning permission, provided it meets permitted development rules and placement requirements. However, listed buildings, conservation areas, and non-standard installations often require formal approval.

By following official guidance, choosing a compliant bunded oil tank, and checking local requirements where necessary, you can ensure a safe, legal, and hassle-free installation.

Looking For a Compliant Bunded Oil Tank?

Explore our range of high-quality bunded oil tanks designed for UK homes, including space-saving slimline options. Built for safety, reliability, and long-term peace of mind — find the right tank for your installation today.