# What is Class E planning use?

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

Class E in England covers a range of commercial, business and service uses, including many shops, cafés, offices, clinics, nurseries and indoor gyms.

## The detail.

The class has several parts. A change between uses within the same class is generally not development, but conditions and the details of an existing permission still need checking; works may need permission separately.

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.

-   Identify the current lawful use and review the decision notices and conditions.
-   Check the proposed operation, lease and any physical works with the relevant professionals.

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 planning use class is a shop?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/shop/)
-   [What planning use class is a gym?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/gym/)
-   [What happened to Class A1 planning use?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/class-a1/)
-   [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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