Once everyone had it in their garden. Today, a dugout can break the rules. Do you need permission?

Traditional food storage methods are experiencing a renaissance of sorts. We are eager to use the knowledge of our grandparents and, making improvements, we are building outdoor pantries in our backyards. Are you thinking about your own dugout? Find out how to make one and whether you need a permit.

Do you need a permit for a dugout? Check what the regulations say about it

The answer to this question is not clear-cut. It all depends on what type of construction it is classified as by the official. A dugout can be considered a farm building if it is permanently attached to the land. In that case, it is required to be reported (as for a building under 35 square meters). If it were to be classified as a small architectural object, no formalities need to be carried out. For this to happen, the building must be small in size and have a simple structure. The best solution is to visit the office and express your desire to build a pantry. This will leave no doubt and will allow you to avoid any possible consequences for construction “lawlessness”.

What should be in a dugout? Check out how to set up an underground pantry

A dugout is an excellent storage room. Because the larder is underground, it maintains a constant temperature of 4-8 degrees. Once you have found the right place to build, consult a specialist to devise the best structure. In an underground pantry, make sure to have an adequate number of vents to prevent it from becoming too humid. When the dugout is ready, it is worth covering it with soil and plant plants on it, such as catnip, sage, lily of the valley, barberry or ivy. This will not only decorate the entire structure, but will also have a positive effect on the thermal insulation of the room.

Pantry (illustrative photo) Photo Ray Shrewsberry / Unsplash

What equipment should go into the dugout?

• Shelves and racks. They must be made of solid materials, resistant to moisture. It is worth using impregnated wood or steel for their production. Wide boards, where you can lay a large amount of .
• Wooden baskets and boxes. These containers are great for storing vegetables or fruit. They provide excellent air circulation, which prevents putrefaction.
• Hooks. Perfect for hanging braids of garlic, herbs or dried meats.
• Thermometer and hygrometer. Both devices are very useful if we want to estimate humidity and temperature. It is worth monitoring these parameters to prevent spoilage of the crop.
• Led lights. They do not raise the temperature when the light is turned on.
• Rodent traps. Where there is food, there are pests, which is why it is a must-have in dugouts. It is worth placing nets in all ventilation holes so that rats or mice have no way of getting inside. If you’d like, please vote in our poll below.