# What planning use class is a hotel?

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

A hotel in England generally falls within Class C1.

## The detail.

C1 also covers boarding and guest houses where no significant element of care is provided; it excludes hostels. Restaurants, bars or other facilities can raise separate questions depending on the overall use.

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.

-   Review the planning history and any conditions for the property.
-   Consider room layout, servicing, licensing and whether proposed works need consent.

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 guest house or bed and breakfast?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/guest-house/)
-   [What are Class C planning uses?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/class-c/)
-   [Can an office be changed into a hotel?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/office-to-hotel/)

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

## How Rivermark can help.

Rivermark helps clients find, buy, sell and let property. Share your property requirements and we can discuss the search or instruction.

- [Explore our hotel property service](https://rivermarkproperty.com/audiences/hospitality-hotel-operators/)
- [Request a call](https://rivermarkproperty.com/request-a-call/)