Unauthorised development and breaches of planning control

The Development Control Service includes an Enforcement Section which investigates alleged breaches of planning control, such as building works that are taking place without the necessary planning permission or unauthorised land use.

If the Council believes unauthorised activity has taken place it has a discretionary power to take formal enforcement action to remedy the breach.  The Council may invite the submission of a retrospective application to regularise the situation if the unauthorised development is acceptable in planning terms.  Should it be necessary to take formal action, then the offender will be given the opportunity to remedy the breach of planning control prior to any action being taken. If the unauthorised development is serious, the Council has powers to halt the development immediately.

For further information about the enforcement process, see page 11 of our Customer Charter.

How can I report a breach of planning control?

Should you wish to report a possible unauthorised development or a breach of planning control, please write to:

Planning Enforcement
North Dorset District Council
Nordon,
Salisbury Road
Blandford
Dorset  DT11 7LL

Tel: 01258 484220

or e-mail: planningenforcement@north-dorset.gov.uk

You MUST include the following information:

• Your name and address (anonymous complaints cannot be considered)
• The address / location and a detailed description of the alleged breach

It will help the Council if you can also provide:

• The name, address and status (eg. owner, occupier) of the person responsible for the alleged breach
• Your own telephone number, email address and fax number

You may use this form either by filling it in on your computer and emailing it to us, or by printing off a copy, filling it in by hand and posting it to us. The Enforcement Team will usually respond to complaints within 15 working days.