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Report suspected unauthorised development

How to report a suspected unauthorised development online

Please complete our online form to report an activity you believe is taking place without planning permission.  This could be:

  • building work;
  • a change of use of an existing building or land ;
  • works to a listed building;
  • the display of an advertisement; or
  • an activity in breach of a planning condition.

Anonymous complaints

We do not investigate anonymous complaints. If you are concerned about intimidation or threats you may wish to discuss this to your District Councillor, Parish or Town Council who can report it on your behalf. For more information please read our Enforcement Statement.

Enforcement Statement

(Please note if your concern relates to a high hedge you will need to use a different form).

Acceptance

I wish to report a suspected unauthorised development and by completing and submitting my form, I confirm that I have read and understood the guidance provided.  (Please read the guidance notes below.)

What happens next?

When we receive your email or letter, we will send you an email with a reference number.  Please quote this reference number if you contact us about the matter.

On receiving your report, we will;

  • register it, and
  • allocate it to an officer to investigate.

We aim to acknowledge all reports within three working days of receipt.  At this time, we will give you the name and contact details of the Enforcement Officer.

We aim to visit all sites in accordance with our prioritisation scheme, please read our Enforcement Statement section 7.0 for the timescales.

Investigations we do not pursue

Sometimes we do not proceed with investigations, but we will tell you the reasons why.  We will also tell you how you can challenge this decision if you disagree.

Examples of where we do not pursue an investigation are:

  • The concern is outside our control.
  • The concern is a matter for another council service or organisation to deal with (we will pass this on for you).
  • The concern appears frivolous or vexatious.
  • The development does not require planning permission.
  • There is no evidence that the development has taken place.

Personal information

All information that the council receives and retains is subject to the Freedom of Information Act 2003 and the Data Protection Act 1998.  This means that information other than personal data may be available for public inspection.

Generally, no information is available during an investigation, but when the case is closed, it can be made available to the public.  However, the council never knowingly release personal data.

Reports made by an elected organisation or representative (town/parish council) will be made available

Contact us - Planning enforcement

01235 422600
(Text phone users add 18001 before dialing)

planning@whitehorsedc.gov.uk

Vale of White Horse District Council
135 Eastern Avenue
Milton Park
Milton
OX14 4SB