What's the difference between "keeping" and "Grazing" horses

[CazD]

Hubby and I got refused Planning Permission for a fixed field shelter in our paddock. The paddock is 2 acres and we have two stables on the site already. Reason for refusal was "too many buildings on the site". Sooo, we thought we'd try the mobile field shelter route. Having been refused the fixed shelter we didnt want to put up a mobile shelter without some kind of permission so wrote to the council seeking their confirmation that we didnt need permission for a mobile shelter. WE sent the usual bundle of stuff from one of the mobile field shelter companies as evidence that permission wasnt needed.
The Council are now saying there is a difference between "keeping horses" at the paddock and "grazing horses" at the paddock We've already established with them that no riding or training takes place on the land but they said something to Hubby about whether or not food is "imported" onto the site. The horses go into the stables in the day in summer and at night in the winter - so are out about 12 hours a day but obviously are fed hay etc while they are in.
Before I reply to the Council's queries can someone point me in the right direction of what to say

 

[Solveig]

I would have a chat to a planning consultant if i were you. Its important you get this right and they will be able to write up the correct document. It may cost a little but i reckon its worth it.

 

[BigBird146]

http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/horsecare/1370/97071.html

See this, also go to your local Borough Council website as they often have info. I thing things can be depend on if you have kept your horses there for a certain amount of time (can't remember how many years) as well.
Think a planning consultant might be the way forward though!

 

[CazD]

That link is real help -thanks very much

 

[OWLIE185]

I can explain.

As far as planning regulations go for horses.

Horses are treated as agricultural animals if they are used on a farm, not fed, or are destined for meat. You rarely will need planning pemission to keep them on a farm if they are used for these purposes.

Horses that are fed or used for recreational purposes are treated as non-agricultural and planning permission is required to keep them on a field or for any fencing, stabling, arenas etc.

Many companies state that planning permission is not required for mobile stables however in my experience this is not true as many local authorities do require planning permission.

My advice to you would be to instruct a local surveyor who knows the planning department to get the planning permission for you.

I hope that this helps.