When we can take enforcement action against unauthorised developments
We want your input on our draft Planning Enforcement Plan, which will guide our approach to tackling breaches in planning regulation in Lewisham - we're re-opening our July/August consultation for more public feedback:
- have your say - complete the survey before 23 December 2024
We're currently experiencing an issue with our website where some of our planning documents are unavailable.
If you need a planning document that's currently not available from our website, please email planning@lewisham.gov.uk for a copy.
We can take enforcement action against:
- unauthorised operational development – carrying out building works, for example, construction of buildings or extensions
- unauthorised material changes of use – changing the use of the building, for example, using a shop as a restaurant
- breaches of conditions – breaching conditions attached to planning permissions, for example, conditions restricting hours of operation
- unauthorised works to a listed building that affect its character as a building of special architectural or historic interest
- unauthorised total or substantial demolition in a conservation area
- unauthorised display of advertisements
- poor condition of private land that is adversely affecting the amenity of an area
It is a criminal offence to carry out unauthorised works to listed buildings, total or substantial demolition of a building in a conservation area, the unauthorised display of advertisements and unauthorised works to protected trees.
We cannot take enforcement action against:
- changes of use that fall within the same use class
- developments granted planning permission under the GPDO (permitted developments) that are, for examples: small residential extensions; satellite dishes; fences and walls; means of access and hard standings; outbuildings, sheds or greenhouses; loft conversions, dormers or roof lights