What is Class E planning use?

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.

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

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