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Similar with any semi-permanent buildings. It is not just a matter of permission for more pitches – it is also a matter of what obligations you may have in terms of upgrading existing infrastructure, electricity supply, water supply, sewerage, access, security, health and safety. For instance, the electrical supply may only be sufficient for the electric current demand of the existing number of pitches so existing cable work may need replacing. Is the capacity sufficient for current use and any expansion plans? Has the system been inspected by the relevant state or local authorities - have they issued any demands for improvements and, if so, how long would you have to comply and how much would it cost? Most will have a website or year book; check if to see if the campsite is listed and if so, what comments and ratings are given. Most large camping organisations also have inspectors who visit sites – find out what they are looking for when they rate a campsite. For instance, a certain governing body in Europe stipulates a minimum shower cubicle width as a condition for a certain star rating - if cubicles have already been built but are too small, then obtaining higher star ratings may prove expensive. You could choose to view the inspector's demands as a hurdle to jump but actually he only represents the wishes of the majority of campers in the organisation he represents, so really his comments should be seen as valuable commercial advice - ignore the wishes of your campers at your peril!
Consider whether permits have been obtained for the number of spaces or pitches already operated. If you plan to expand the campsite, talk to the relevant authorities before purchase. Remember that sewerage does not travel uphill, at least not without specialist sewerage pumps, so you need to consider the existing layout when considering expanding into areas of differing elevations. Find out who the most important camping bodies and organisations are for the relevant country.