There are some situations where breaches of planning control are immune from enforcement action. We do not have the power to take enforcement action against a developer when:
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An unauthorised building or operational development has been substantially completed for four years or more.
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An unauthorised change of use from a building to a dwelling-house has been in place for four years or more.
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An unauthorised change of use to a building or piece of land was made ten years ago or more.
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Conditions of a planning permission were breached ten years ago or more.
If the owners of land or property think that a breach of planning has become immune from enforcement action, they can apply for a Lawful Development Certificate. This is a legal document that confirms the use, operation or activity on the site as long as no further changes are made.
Planning Enforcement
Guildford Borough Council
Millmead House
Millmead
Guildford
GU2 4BB
Tel: 01483 444627
Email: planningenforcement@guildford.gov.uk