Planning enforcement policy

Summary

This Enforcement Policy explains the planning enforcement function, it will break down the various Breaches of Planning Control and Criminal Offences that Planning Enforcement is empowered to address and detail the related powers afforded to the Borough Council and how and when these powers may be employed.

To enable the Borough Council to give the best possible service, the policy gives clear guidance on what we can do and how complaints are prioritized. It explains how complaints can be made and details what can reasonably be expected from the Borough Council once a complaint has been made. It gives current links to a range of related legislation and guidance relevant to the planning enforcement function.

The Council must operate its enforcement activities within Government guidelines and in accordance with Council policy.

• action should not be taken just because development has started without planning permission
• the Council does not always have to take action but the particular circumstances of the case must always be considered
• it is not normal to take formal action against a minor breach of control that causes no real harm

Document

• Enforcement Policy (PDF) [248KB]