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What do I need to check before making a complaint?

Are you concerned about a development?

If you are concerned about a development, you can check our Public Register system to see if permission has been granted and if there are any conditions attached to it. Please include the planning reference number in any complaint if relevant.

View planning applications

Does all development need planning permission?

Some development does not need planning permission. This type of development is known as ‘permitted development’. Residential dwellings have an array of permitted development rights particularly in relation to single storey extensions and outbuildings. Further information on permitted development rights for householders is available on our 'do I need planning permission?' page.

A number of mini guides are also available for the most common projects.

Some commercial development is also considered to be permitted development, further information is also available on our 'do I need planning permission?' page.

When are the time limits for taking enforcement action?

The time limits for taking enforcement action are set out in section 171B of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.

Unauthorised works and uses Time period
Breach of planning control consisting of operational development where substantial completion took place on or after 25 April 2024 Within ten years of substantial completion
Unauthorised change of use to a single dwellinghouse where the change of use took place on or after 25 April 2024 Within ten years
Breach of planning control consisting of operational development where substantial completion took place before 25 April 2024  Within four years of substantial completion
Unauthorised change of use to a single dwellinghouse where the change of use took place before 25 April 2024 Within four years
Any other breach of planning control (essentially other changes of use) Within ten years

Development becomes immune from enforcement action if formal enforcement action is not taken within the time limits set out above.

We do not investigate:

  • Land ownership – contact HM Land Registry for more information.
  • Covenants contained within property deeds.
  • Party walls and boundary disputes – look on Planning Portal for more information
  • Internal works (except in relation to a listed building), for example new kitchens / bathrooms and general decorating where no external works are required, or a change of use has occurred.
  • Health and safety matters – refer to HSE for more information
  • Building regulation matters – refer to the council’s building regulations pages

Report a planning breach

Report the breaking of planning rules

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