Planning Use Classes & Change of Use – Frequently Asked Questions

What are planning use classes?

Use classes group together similar land uses so that movement between compatible uses may not require planning permission.

What is Use Class C3?

Use Class C3 covers residential dwellings and includes:

• single households

• households with care provision

• small groups living together as one household

What is Use Class C4?

Use Class C4 covers small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) occupied by 3–6 unrelated individuals sharing facilities.

👉 Related service: HMO Planning Services

What is Sui Generis use?

Sui Generis uses are those that fall outside defined use classes, such as large HMOs (7+ occupants), public houses and certain specialist uses.

What is Use Class E?

Use Class E covers a broad range of commercial uses, including shops, offices, cafés, gyms and certain medical services. Movement within Class E often does not require planning permission.

When does a change of use need planning permission?

Planning permission is required where a proposed change:

• falls outside permitted use class movement, or

• would result in a material change in planning terms

Local restrictions and Article 4 Directions can also remove permitted rights.

What is an Article 4 Direction?

An Article 4 Direction removes specific Permitted Development Rights in a defined area, meaning planning permission is required for changes that would otherwise be permitted.

Do Article 4 Directions affect use classes?

Yes. Article 4 Directions commonly restrict changes from residential use to HMOs or other intensified uses.

Can I rely on permitted development for change of use?

Some changes of use are permitted under national legislation, but strict criteria apply. Professional advice is recommended before relying on these rights.

Can I get a Certificate of Lawfulness for a change of use?

Yes. Where a change of use is lawful under permitted development or time limits, a Certificate of Lawfulness can provide confirmation.

👉 Related service: Certificates of Lawfulness