Enforcement

Most people know that planning permission is needed to build new houses, shops, factories and similar buildings. Permission is also sometimes needed for many small works, such as building walls, extensions, garages, car ports or constructing hard standings
 
The change of use of land and buildings can also need planning permission. For instance, extending a garden into an adjoining field or changing a shop to a hot food take away.
 
Most people get advice and apply for planning permission. However, sometimes this is not the case. This is usually because they do not know that permission is needed; occasionally, it is deliberate.
 
It is not an offence to carry out development without first obtaining planning permission. However, if unauthorised development or activities take place, the Council has discretionary powers to take enforcement action, particularly if the appearance of the area or the living conditions of local residents is adversely affected.

The Council employs a planning enforcement team to investigate complaints of unauthorised development. If you are concerned about development that you think may be unauthorised you can make an enforcement complaint but, before you do, please read the guidance notes in the attachment below. This explains what the Council can and cannot consider and also explains the process your enquiry will follow.

Complaints should normally be made in writing or by submitting our planning complaint form which is available for you to download below. Please fill it in and return it to us if you wish to submit a complaint. Completed forms can be sent by email to developmentcontrol@barnsley.gov.uk  or by post to: -

Planning Enforcement
Planning and Transportation Service
PO Box 604
Barnsley
S70 9FE

Please note that anonymous complaints will not usually be investigated unless there is a clear and obvious breach of planning control.

Planning Complaint form ( Building works)

Planning Complaint form (use)

Instructions on how to make a complanit