Enforcement & Appeals
Don't let enforcement end your STL business
Having a licence is not a defence against planning enforcement. A Planning Enforcement Notice can force you to cease trading in as little as 2 months — even with a valid licence. We can help.
⚠️ Time is critical
Appeal deadlines are often short and mandated strictly by law. If you've received an enforcement notice or licence refusal, contact us immediately — delays can cost you your right to appeal.
What We Handle
Planning Enforcement Notices
PENs can force cessation of STL use in as little as 2 months. We frame appropriate legal arguments and have seen notices quashed entirely.
Licence Refusals
A refusal impacts your ability to procure future licences. We ensure applications aren't refused improperly and represent you through the appeals process.
Subcommittee Hearings
Quasi-judicial proceedings before local councillors. We prepare responses, frame legal arguments, and appear alongside or instead of you.
Licence Condition Challenges
Conditions you disagree with can be challenged. We assess whether conditions have been applied lawfully and advise on the best course of action.
Planning Appeals (DPEA)
Appeals to the Directorate for Planning and Environmental Appeals. We prepare compelling, legally competent arguments based on appropriate grounds.
Pre-emptive Strategy
Nervous about possible enforcement? We can assess your position, identify risks, and develop strategies to forestall or overcome enforcement action before it happens.
Key Facts
Enforcement Notices are usually preceded by a “material complaint” demonstrating public interest, but each local authority has its own Enforcement Charter and practices.
The circumstances under which a licence can be refused are tightly constrained under Schedule 1, Paragraph 5 of the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982. Any refusal can be appealed on well-understood grounds under Paragraph 18.
Where a licence application has not been determined within the statutory 9-month deadline, it is deemed granted for one year under Section 3(4) — though the authority may not always acknowledge this promptly.
Facing enforcement or a refusal?
Time matters. Contact us now for an urgent assessment of your situation and options.
Contact Us Urgently