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  1. Welcome to Planning Portal
  2. Do you need permission?
  3. Common projects
  4. Change of use
  5. Planning Permission

Change of use

Planning Permission
  1. Use Classes
  2. Planning Permission
  3. Building Regulations
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Planning Permission

Generally, if it is proposed to change from one Use Class to another, you will need planning permission. Most external building work associated with a change of use is also likely to require planning permission. There are some exceptions that are covered in more detail below. 

If you are proposing to change the use of buildings or land, we would always recommend that you seek advice from the local planning authority to confirm whether or not planning permission or prior approval is required.

Find your local planning authority (https://www.planningportal.co.uk/find-your-local-planning-authority)

Find your local planning authority

Additionally, before you lease or buy a property for your business, you should check whether you need to obtain planning permission or prior approval for its intended use and, if so, your chances of getting it.


Changes of use not requiring planning permission
Permanent changes of use
Further information on permanent changes of use
Temporary changes of use
Permitted development legislation

Find a Trade Professional

Use our partner directories to find a planning or building professional to help with your project or development.

Find a professional (https://www.planningportal.co.uk/planning/planning-applications/find-a-trade-professional)

Find a professional


Useful links

Make an application (https://www.planningportal.co.uk/app/applications)

Make an application

Speak to an expert (https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/planning-guidance-service)

Speak to an expert

Studio Charrette consultancy calculator (https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/home-improvement/planning-consultancy-calculator)

Studio Charrette consultancy calculator

Sell your site with Land Match (https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/commercial-developments/sell-your-site)

Sell your site with Land Match

      Disclaimer

      This is an introductory guide and is not a definitive source of legal information. Guidance is based on national rules, but additional local rules may also affect what permissions are needed. You should check if this is the case before applying or starting work.
      Guidance here relates to the planning regime for England, the policy in Wales may differ. If in doubt contact your local planning authority. Please note, local authorities may charge a fee for pre-application advice.
      Read our full disclaimer1.

      1. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/services/terms-and-disclaimer/terms-and-conditions

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        The Planning Portal is delivered by PortalPlanQuest Limited which is a joint venture between TerraQuest Solutions Limited and the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG). All content © 2025 Planning Portal.

        The Planning Portal is delivered by PortalPlanQuest Limited which is a joint venture between TerraQuest Solutions Limited and the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG). All content © 2025 Planning Portal.