# What planning use class is a storage yard?

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

Open-air storage in England is included in Class B8, storage or distribution.

## The detail.

The nature of the activity and any other uses on the land matter. A particular yard’s lawful use cannot be established from its appearance alone.

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 planning records and any limits on materials, hours or outdoor storage.
-   Consider access, boundaries, surfacing and any proposed 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 is Class B8 planning use?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/class-b8/)
-   [What planning use class is a warehouse?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/warehouse/)
-   [What planning use class is an industrial unit?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/industrial-unit/)

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

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