Should you receive an Enforcement Notice due to allegedly carrying out of works or a change of use which has not been granted planning permission, it is essential that you seek professional advice as soon as possible, for challenging a notice requires knowledge and experience of the procedure. Failure to act upon its requirements could result in court action by the Council leading to substantial fines up to £20,000 (having regard to the financial benefit resulting from the alleged breach of Planning Control) and if this entails building works, removing these and restoring the building to its previous condition.

Frequently, Enforcement Notices follow from a visit by an Enforcement Officer from the Council making enquiries.  It is best, if you are concerned, to seek professional advice at this early stage as this may overt or help to mitigate the content of an Enforcement Notice.  It is common practice when a Planning Authority is considering issuing an Enforcement Notice, to proceed this with a formal request for information.  Failure to provide the information requested can lead to prosecution.  Again, the need to seek professional advice is strongly recommended.

Any appeal against the Enforcement Notice must be submitted before te date on which the Notice is to take effect.  (see Planning Appeals)