Use Classes and Change of Use for Commercial Property
Written by Scott Jones, founder of CommercialPropertyKiln · Last updated
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Planning use classes decide what a property can be used for and when a change needs planning permission. The 2020 reforms gave commercial landlords real flexibility, which is worth understanding.
Class E: the flexible commercial class
Since September 2020, most commercial, business and service uses sit in a single broad class, Class E. It brings together shops, offices, restaurants and cafes, gyms, clinics, and professional and financial services. The big benefit for landlords is that you can generally switch between uses within Class E without planning permission, so an office can become a shop or a gym without a change-of-use application.
F1, F2 and sui generis
Two other classes cover community and institutional uses: F1 (learning and non-residential institutions, such as schools and museums) and F2 (local community uses, such as small shops in isolated areas and community halls). Some uses sit outside the classes altogether as sui generis, including pubs, takeaways, cinemas and petrol stations, and moving to or from these usually needs planning permission.
When you still need permission
You need planning permission to change between classes (for example from Class E to residential, though see permitted development), to move to or from a sui generis use, or where a condition on the property restricts the use.
Check the position
Always check the current use, any conditions, and whether an intended change falls within Class E or needs an application. See the change of use process. Planning is fact-specific, so confirm with the local planning authority or a planning consultant.
What is Use Class E?
The broad commercial, business and service class introduced in 2020, covering shops, offices, restaurants, gyms and clinics. You can generally switch between uses within Class E without planning permission.
When do I need planning permission to change use?
To change between classes, to move to or from a sui generis use such as a pub or takeaway, or where a condition restricts the use.