Planning, monitoring and enforcement

Local Monitoring and Enforcement Plan

We are the Minerals and Waste Planning Authority for Oxfordshire. We manage development related to mineral extraction and waste. 

Our Local Monitoring and Enforcement Plan (PDF format, 279Kb) explains how we monitor sites and respond when planning rules are not followed.

The Planning Regulation Service ensures that approved sites comply with the rules. We monitor activity and take action if needed. We also investigate reports of unauthorised mineral or waste development. 

Our monitoring and enforcement aims are to:

• deal with unauthorised development and breaches of planning control
• act quickly to bring unauthorised activity under control
• support appropriate, high-quality development through the planning process. 

Monitoring mineral and waste planning permissions

By regularly monitoring sites, we help identify and address issues early. This allows us to promote good practice and support operators to follow planning rules. 

Monitoring fees and site visits

We can charge a fee to monitor sites where this relates directly to mineral extraction or landfill. Risk is assessed for each site, which determines how often we visit. 

Our assessments check for:

• sensitivity of location
• size and type of development
• number and complexity of planning conditions
• number of issues requiring monitoring input
• the stage and pace of development
• whether the operator carries ISO 14001 (recognised best practice)
• breaches of planning control that are or have been observed
• complaints received for the site

Our protocol on fees (PDF, 165KB) explains how we set visit numbers and apply charges.

Sites we do not charge fees for 

• scrap yards
• recycling facilities
• waste transfer stations
• sewage works 
• composting sites

When development happens without permission

Most development takes place after planning permission is granted. However, some development does occur without permission.

When this is reported, the Planning, Monitoring and Enforcement Team investigates the issue.

Development without planning permission is not usually a criminal offence. However, it does breach planning control. The county council has the power to enforce these rules. Any formal action must be based on clear evidence and be in the public interest.

Most cases are resolved without formal enforcement action. Issues are addressed through engagement with those involved. Where this approach is not effective, formal enforcement powers may be used, including:

• Planning Contravention Notice (PCN)
• Breach of Condition Notice (BCN)
• Enforcement notice
• Stop notice/Temporary stop notice
• Injunction
• Direct action

Breaches from our own developments

We are responsible for resolving breaches of planning control caused by our developments. If a breach is identified, officers work with the relevant council team to put things right.

If this does not resolve the issue, it is reported to the Planning and Regulation Committee. The committee will decide whether further action is needed. If so, they will work with the relevant Cabinet Member to agree on a resolution.