# What is Class C3 planning use?

Canonical source: https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/class-c3/

Class C3 in England covers dwellinghouses, including homes occupied by a single person or family and certain other households.

## The detail.

C3 has three parts covering different household arrangements. Some shared homes instead fall within C4 or may be sui generis. The way the property is occupied matters.

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 number of occupants and how they live together.
-   Review the planning history, any conditions and the proposed use.

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 are Class C planning uses?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/class-c/)
-   [What is Class C4 planning use?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/class-c4/)
-   [What planning use class is an HMO?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/house-in-multiple-occupation/)
-   [Can Class E commercial property be converted to residential use?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/class-e-to-residential/)

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

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