Ok guys so we're setting about our dream of living simply. Yes we're those hippies that want to live green and eco friendly (yawn)

So the thing is we're trying to figure out whether or not we need planning permission. I read somewhere that if the construction is less than 20 metres squared the we don't need planning permission-is this true? If so, is there any limit on height?

Also, I figure that placing a caravan on a piece of land doesn't require planning permission because it's a movable structure-is there some loophole that we could use to make our home under these guidelines? We were considering shipping containers because they are in theory a movable structure. Anything that doesn't require foundations should fall into the same category right? If I'm wrong please correct me...

Basically we're looking for some way to purchase a piece of land and build some form of structure there that wont cause a problem with the local authorities.
It's not like we're building a real house, we're sticking mud together-lol.

We don't have the money to facilitate purchasing land that already has planning permission and the likelihood of us finding land that has permission to build an eco home is slim to none.

We really can't afford to buy land and apply for permission on the off chance that permission is refused and we have land that we can't do anything with.

We know it can be done because people all over the world have done it and specifically it's been done in Brittany.

The thing with building in France is that the climate would be perfect for growing a variety of crops and homeschooling in France is legal. It's a place I've always wanted to live in and I actually speak French! (well, basic french anyway.) I wouldn't say I'm fluent but I know enough to make conversation and get my point across. I'm also improving my skills (as well as juggling a whole new skill set required for building a house!)

So big post over and I apologise for the rant

All offerings of help are greatfully received...

Emma