The Planning Enforcement section investigates breaches of planning control, which include unauthorised development, non-compliance with approved plans or planning conditions and unauthorised works to Listed Buildings.
Planning enforcement
Where development has taken place without planning permission, or building work has begun prior to the submission of Full Plans or a Building Notice, the council can take enforcement action and can, as a last resort, prosecute any person undertaking work that is unauthorised.
Once planning permission has been given, certain conditions may be attached which must be complied with and it is the role of the Enforcement section to ensure that this is done. This may include making sure, for example, that a new house or an extension is built in the right place and in accordance with the approved plans, that the correct bricks or tiles or other building materials are used, that windows and doors are in the right places, or that the correct number of car parking spaces have been provided. Please see our leaflet, Planning Enforcement for full details about the Enforcement section. Please also see our Statement of Policy for the Planning Enforcement Service below for further information.
Please also see Planning Enforcement: Frequently Asked Questions.
If a complaint is received from any member of the public regarding building work or development, authorised or otherwise, the Enforcement section will investigate the matter as soon as possible and act accordingly. If you have any concerns over a development in your area, you can contact the Enforcement section on 01727 819346 or by email at planning.enforcement@stalbans.gov.uk. Planning Enforcement will not respond to anonymous complaints unless the complaint relates to unauthorised works to a listed building.
What planning enforcement does not cover
The Planning Enforcement section only investigate planning-related complaints and enquiries. For complaints about noise, litter, refuse collection etc please contact Environmental Heath.
Complaints and enquiries relating to roads, pavements and verges should be directed to Hertfordshire Highways on 01438 737320.