Planning enforcement

We have introduced an enforcement policy to provide the foundation for the planning enforcement service.

View or download the planning enforcement policy document. It includes the protocol and procedures summarised below.

The planning enforcement service will:

• investigate alleged breaches of planning control that are reported in writing – we will only register and investigate anonymous complaints that relate to works to a Listed Build, Conservation Area Tree, or tree protected by a Tree Protection Order (TPO)
• register and acknowledge written complaints that have been received, as well as updating those complaining on the outcomes of the investigation
• seek to control breaches of planning control that cause significant harm to amenity

We will deliver this service by:

• prioritising cases in accordance with our enforcement policy
• being helpful, polite and open in the way we work
• allocating a named case officer as a contact person
• responding to all contacts in plain English
• pursuing a breach of planning control to a suitable conclusion
• retaining confidentiality of those complaining when possible

We ask for complaints in writing because it provides evidence to justify why we are investigating. It’s also useful if we need to update you.

You will need to provide your full contact details, name, address, email address and a contact number. Please also include the address of the property/site that you are concerned about and as much detail as you are able regarding any possible breach of planning control.

We respond more quickly to emails, but you can also send letters.

You can contact us:

• email planningenforcement@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
• write to Planning Enforcement, Civic Offices, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth,PO1 2AU
• in an emergency, call the city helpdesk on 023 9283 4092 and ask for Planning Enforcement

We do not investigate anonymous complaints unless they involve a listed building, conservation area trees, and trees protected by a TPO.