Outside of National Parks East Dorset is one of the most environmentally protected areas in England.  Most of the south east of the district is designated as green belt and most of the north west is an area of outstanding natural beauty. Additionally, there are flood plain considerations along our waterways and much of the land is designated and protected by European law in relation to flora and fauna habitats.  For these reasons any breach of planning control that cannot be remedied through the planning system will be formally addressed.

It is usual for enforcement notices to be served to support our position in relation to any unresolved breach of planning control.  There is a right to appeal to the Planning Inspectorate against any such notice.

Even though some matters, e.g. unlawful advertising and unauthorised works to a listed building are immediate criminal offences, we will usually try to negotiate a settlement before considering formal action.

If you wish to bring anything to the attention of the Planning Enforcement Team, please use the attached form that includes a summary of our adopted enforcement policy.  From the date we receive a completed form, we have three weeks to investigate the matter and determine a course of action.  Progress will not to be published on any web site.  Any further enquiry you wish to make should be in writing.

Please note: The council will only accept complaints in writing. The preferred option is for complainants to use the form mentioned above. However, we will accept a letter or email which must include the complainants full postal address.

In addition, please be aware that if you are complaining about an unauthorised use of property, you must supply records / documentation / information in support of your claims. Without such information, we will be unable to process the complaint.

• Name: Planning applications, enforcement and tree matters (East Dorset)
  Email: planning@eastdorset.gov.uk
  Tel: 01202 886201
  Fax: 01202 849182
  Full details for Planning applications, enforcement and tree matters (East Dorset)