# What planning use class is a cinema?

Canonical source: https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/cinema/

A cinema in England is generally sui generis, meaning it falls outside the specified use classes.

## The detail.

A cinema is specifically excluded from the use classes. Other activities in the building may require their own assessment.

This guidance applies to England. The lawful use, conditions, any proposed works and the facts of the operation should be checked for each property.

## What to check.

-   Check the existing lawful use and how the venue will operate.
-   Consider accessibility, noise, servicing and any building work.

A planning adviser or the local planning authority can advise on the specific property and proposal.

## Sources.

-   [Planning Portal: use classes in England](https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/common-projects/change-of-use/use-classes/)
-   [GOV.UK: when is permission required?](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/when-is-permission-required)

Sources reviewed 6 November 2026. General information, not a planning opinion.

## Related questions.

-   [What does sui generis mean in planning?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/sui-generis/)
-   [What happened to Class D2 planning use?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/class-d2/)
-   [When is planning permission needed for a change of use?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/change-of-use/)

[See all planning use class guides](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/)

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