Does a planning enforcement notice expire?
Jessica Cortez
Updated on May 02, 2026
Correspondingly, how long can planning conditions be enforced?
There are two time limits set out in section 171B of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 for an authority to take enforcement action: four years where the breach comprises either operational development (the carrying out of unauthorised building, engineering, mining or other operations) or the change of use of a
Likewise, what does a planning enforcement notice mean? Complaint, Enforcement procedure. Enforcement of planning control is a matter for the Planning Authority, which can take action if a development does not have the required permission, or where terms of permission have not been met.
Thereof, what happens if you ignore a planning enforcement notice?
If you do not appeal the enforcement notice, it will take effect and you will be required to carry out its steps in full. Failure to comply with the terms of an enforcement notice is a criminal offence, for which you may be prosecuting. The planning enforcement system is complex and you should take professional advice.
What is the 10 year rule in planning permission?
'THE 10 YEAR RULE' applies to a Change of Use to land and buildings which must have existed in excess of 10 years before it can be protected from enforcement action. Therefore you may have a perfectly adequate building but no lawful use for it.