Planning Enforcement Policy 2024

A breach of planning control occurs when development or activities are carried out without the required planning permission or in a manner that does not comply with the approved plans or conditions attached to a planning permission.

This can include:

• unauthorised development: erecting buildings or structures without planning permission; unlawful earthworks or engineering operations 
• change of use: changing the use of land or buildings without planning permission.
• non-compliance with conditions: failing to adhere to conditions or limitations imposed by a granted planning permission.
• unauthorised works to a listed building: carrying out works to a listed building without the necessary listed building consent.
• breach of advertisement regulations: displaying advertisements without the required consent.
• damage to protected trees: carrying out work on protected trees (those subject to a Tree Preservation Order or within a conservation area) without consent.

Local planning authorities are responsible for investigating alleged breaches and have the power to take enforcement action if necessary.