Planning Enforcement

The council has a duty to uphold and enforce the law with regards to planning, where necessary. Officers have a responsibility to investigate whenever a complaint is brought to them and a breach of law is suspected.

You are advised to look at the council's enforcement protocol for a detailed explanation of our enforcement procedures.

If you find yourself investigated or challenged;

• You will be treated with fairness and respect.
• You will be treated as being innocent unless proved guilty. Officers who visit you will always have an official means of identification and will always give you their name on request.
• You will be told of the nature of the complaint and of your rights, but the source of the complaint will not be revealed.
• You will be given an opportunity to state your case and to comment upon the allegations.
• You could be officially cautioned if the alleged offence calls for it.
• You will be told as soon as possible of the outcome of the initial investigation.
• If the investigation finds that the law has been breached, you may be asked to give more information. You have the right to ask that the request be in writing so that you can then seek professional or legal advice. Any written request for information will be on headed Forest of Dean District Council paper.
• At all times, your rights will be explained, including any methods of appeal if you are eventually accused of a breach of the law.
• If the matter is capable of being resolved otherwise than by formal prosecution, the council will explain what action could be taken.
• Formal enforcement action and prosecution is often seen as a last resort when discussions and negotiations have failed. The council looks for your cooperation in resolving issues amicably. But in the public interest the council's duty, when all else fails, is clear. 
                                            

Planning Enforcement     

Tel: 01594 812371 

Email:planning.enforcement@fdean.gov.uk