In the majority of cases planning permission is required before a new use begins or activities are carried out. However some changes of use and minor works will not need permission.  These should be checked before any changes are implemented or works commenced.

Because there are planning controls there needs to be a process whereby breaches of those controls can be dealt with.  This is the role of planning enforcement.

It should be noted from the outset that there is no statutory duty on the Council to carry out enforcement.  Any and all actions are at the discretion of the Council.

A breach of planning control occurs when development is undertaken without the appropriate planning permission or advertisement consent being obtained prior to commencement.

The kinds of activity we deal with include unauthorized building works, including works to listed buildings; unauthorised changes of use; unauthorized advertisements and breaches of conditions attached to planning permissions.

 

Who to contact

Alleged breaches of planning control can be reported by completing and submitting the online complaint form

In writing: 
Planning Enforcement,
Fenland District Council,
Fenland Hall,
County Road,
March PE15 8NQ.


Email: planningenforcement@fenland.gov.uk

Phone: 01354 654321

Fax: 01354 606919