The detail.
A restaurant or café where food and drink are mostly consumed on the premises generally falls within Class E(b). A mixed operation needs a fact-specific assessment.
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 the existing lawful use and local planning policies.
- Consider extraction, odours, deliveries, hours and any proposed alterations.
A planning adviser or the local planning authority can advise on the specific property and proposal.
Sources.
Sources reviewed 6 November 2026. General information, not a planning opinion.