# What planning use class is an industrial unit?

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

An industrial unit in England may be Class B2 or Class E(g)(iii), depending on the process and its effects.

## The detail.

E(g)(iii) covers industrial processes that can be carried out in a residential area without detriment to amenity. B2 covers general industrial processes other than those in E(g).

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.

-   Describe the actual process, equipment, deliveries, noise and hours.
-   Review the property’s planning history and any limits on 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 is Class B2 planning use?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/class-b2/)
-   [What happened to Class B1 planning use?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/class-b1/)
-   [What planning use class is a warehouse?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/warehouse/)
-   [What is Class B8 planning use?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/class-b8/)

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

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