This is a list of the Local Planning Authority (LPA) officers and government officials that you are most likely to encounter when applying for planning permission:
Case officer
A planning case officer works for the LPA to assess and process planning applications. Their duties include reviewing proposals for compliance with planning policies, conducting site visits, consulting with stakeholders and the public, and making recommendations or decisions on applications. They also advise applicants and the public on planning matters and may participate in enforcement actions for planning breaches.
Enforcement officer
A planning enforcement officer works for the LPA to investigate breaches of planning rules, like unauthorised building or land use changes. They conduct site visits, collect evidence, and work with property owners and developers to resolve issues. They can issue enforcement notices, prepare legal documents for prosecutions, and represent the LPA in planning appeals or court hearings. If you occupy a site without planning permission, the enforcement officer will typically be the first person to visit.
Highways officer
A highways officer works for the local highways authority and will look at whether the access onto the road is safe or not. They may come and visit the site to look at the access.
Other expert officers
Other experts that work for the local authority or official organisations can include ecologists, drainage engineers, landscape officers, tree officers and flood experts. You are most likely not to encounter these people in person, but they are involved in considering applications.
Planning inspector
A planning inspector reviews and decides on planning appeals and other related cases, such as enforcement notices and listed building consents. They work independently, often conducting site visits and holding public hearings to gather information before making a decision based on planning laws and policies. In Local Plans, a planning inspector examines the plans to ensure they meet legal requirements and planning policies. They review the plan's content, hold public hearings to consider community feedback, and then provide a report with recommendations. The local plan can only be adopted if the inspector finds it sound.