# Can an office be changed into a hotel?

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

An office is generally Class E(g)(i) and a hotel is generally Class C1 in England. The proposed change needs a property-specific planning assessment.

## The detail.

Do not assume an existing office permission allows hotel use. The applicable planning route depends on the facts, local restrictions and any relevant permitted development rights.

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 existing lawful use, decision notices and conditions.
-   Ask a planning adviser or local authority about the proposed change and associated works.

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 an office?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/office/)
-   [What planning use class is a hotel?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/hotel/)
-   [What are Class C planning uses?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/class-c/)
-   [When is planning permission needed for a change of use?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/change-of-use/)

[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/)
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