# What planning use class is a restaurant?

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

A restaurant in England generally falls within Class E(b) when food and drink are mostly consumed on the premises.

## The detail.

A hot food takeaway where consumption is mostly off the premises is generally sui generis. The actual operation matters, especially where both activities are proposed.

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.

-   Check extraction, opening hours, deliveries and the planning history.
-   Consider licensing, building work and any restrictions in the lease.

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 café?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/cafe/)
-   [What planning use class is a hot food takeaway?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/takeaway/)
-   [Can a shop be changed into a café?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/shop-to-cafe/)
-   [What is Class E planning use?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/class-e/)

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

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