Commentary on Sections Part 5: Enforcement. Sections 176, 177 and 178: Rights to enter without warrant, under warrant and supplementary provisions
Section 176 allows any person authorised by a council to enter land without a warrant to carry out enforcement functions under this Act. The provisions also enable the Department to enter land prior to issuing an enforcement notice, listed building enforcement notice, stop notice, following consultation with a council. Section 177 provides that if entry to land has been refused or the case is urgent, a council or Department can obtain a warrant to enter the land. Section 178 covers administrative arrangements for the entering of land either with or without a warrant, and includes offence provisions e.g. an offence of obstructing the entry of authorised persons.