Planning enforcement is the process where we investigate and try to resolve breaches of planning control. If left unchallenged such breaches can undermine the whole planning process. It is therefore very important that effective enforcement is applied where it is needed.

The planning enforcement team receive around 2400 requests for service each year which officers are obliged to investigate. Approximately 50% of these cases are determined to be lawfully permitted developments that do not require planning permission.  In these cases the Council cannot take action.  It is therefore imperative that before you report an issue of concern that you are aware of what the Council can and cannot help you with.  

Please read these webpages in full before submitting a complaint.

What we will not investigate

• Dangerous Buildings/Structures – contact Building Control
• Matters affecting Public Highways – contact Transport and Streets
• Noise disturbance and pollution - contact Environmental Protection

What we will investigate

• Building/engineering work carried out without the correct permission  
• Unauthorised land use
• Planning conditions not being complied with
• Unauthorised changes in the use of land or buildings
• Works being carried out to a listed building without permission
• Unauthorised demolition on a conservation area
• Unauthorised works to a protected tree
• Unauthorised siting and use of a caravan
• Land or buildings which have been neglected or are an eyesore