# What planning use class is a shop?

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

Most shops in England fall within Class E(a), for the display or retail sale of goods other than hot food.

## The detail.

Some small shops selling essential goods in areas without a nearby alternative may instead fall within Class F2(a), if the statutory criteria are met.

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 lawful use, planning conditions and permitted use in the lease.
-   Check any shopfront alterations, signage and servicing arrangements.

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.

-   [Can a shop be changed into a café?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/shop-to-cafe/)
-   [Can a shop be changed into a gym?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/shop-to-gym/)
-   [What happened to Class A1 planning use?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/class-a1/)
-   [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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