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Use Classes

The Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 19871 (as amended2) puts uses of land and buildings into various categories known as 'Use Classes' which are detailed below.

'Change of use' can occur within the same Use Class or from one Use Class to another.

Depending on the specifics of any proposed change of use, including any building work associated with the proposal, it may require an application for planning permission or prior approval3.

The relevant building regulations also need to be considered for any proposed change of use4.



Current Use Classes

The current Use Classes were last updated on 1 September 2020.

Generally for any applications, the Use Classes in effect when the application was submitted will be used to determine it.

There are other specific areas of legislation that will allow use of Use Classes as they were at a specific point in time.

However, it is advised that you confirm the specifics of any of these potential situations with the relevant Local Planning Authority.

    Class B
    Class C
    Class E - Commercial, Business and Service
    Class F - Local Community and Learning
    Sui Generis


    Revoked Use Classes

    Old Use Classes are included here for reference and use in specific situations where they remain valid.

    Class A
    Class B
    Class D

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    Useful links

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      1. http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1987/764/contents/made
      2. http://www.legislation.gov.uk/changes/affected/uksi/1987/764
      3. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/common-projects/change-of-use/planning-permission
      4. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/common-projects/change-of-use/building-regulations

      The Planning Portal is delivered by PortalPlanQuest Limited which is a joint venture between TerraQuest Solutions Limited and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC). All content © 2024 Planning Portal.

      The Planning Portal is delivered by PortalPlanQuest Limited which is a joint venture between TerraQuest Solutions Limited and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC). All content © 2024 Planning Portal.