Planning Enforcement

A breach of planning control occurs when development takes place without the council's approval.

Unauthorised development includes:

• major building works recently commenced at residential properties (for example extensions, dormers, outbuilding) within a Conservation or Article 4 area
• alterations to listed buildings
• felling and lopping of trees the subject of a Tree Preservation Order or in a Conservation Area
• breaches in Crews Hill Defined Area
• commercial activity that impacts upon Residential Property (including late night opening and sale or repair of vehicles)
• use of outbuildings/external garages as a separate unit of accommodation
• repair of motor vehicles on private land
• untidy or derelict land causing immediate detriment to residential amenity and/or the street scene
• car washes - usually hand car washes (not at traffic lights)
• late night opening
• hostels and care homes
• flat conversions
• unauthorised residential occupation/houses of multiple occupation
• car boot sales
• advertisements
• sale of motor vehicles on private land
• breaches of planning condition
• other changes of use
• minor works at residential properties (porches, fences, balustrade, patios)
• garages and outbuildings
• shop fronts and canopies
• ventilation equipment
• vehicular accesses - onto principal road
• satellite dishes
• high hedge complaints (Anti Social Behaviour Act)
• all other breaches

A breach of planning control is not usually a criminal offence. However, unauthorised works to a listed building, unauthorised display of advertisements or damage to a protected tree may involve a criminal offence.