What is our procedure on gypsy and traveller unauthorised campsites?
Steps for removing an encampment from council-owned land
1 Identify the land and conduct welfare checks SHOW
2 Serve a notice to leave SHOW
3 Apply for a court order SHOW
4 Eviction SHOW
5 Aftermath SHOW
Encampments on private land
If the land is not council-owned, the landowner is responsible for arranging the removal.
The landowner can take legal action to repossess their property, potentially with the support of Southampton City Council.
Can the council remove unauthorised campsites immediately?
No, removing an unauthorised encampment requires legal proceedings to obtain a court order. This can take some time to complete.
In some circumstances where there is crime or disorder, the police may take action. We advise to report instances of antisocial behaviour to the police. You can do this on Hampshire Constabulary website or by calling their non-emergency number, 101.
Will we investigate outside of normal working hours?
No, we will only act during working hours which is Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm (excluding bank holidays).
For more information, you can read our managing unauthorised encampments policy or visit the GOV.UK website for dealing with illegal or unauthorised encampments.
