Table of changes via Use Class

The GPDO allows for various changes from one use class to another.

Use the table below to see where one use class can be converted to another use class. Where we have articles on the different classes within the GPDO, you will find the links below.

The table summarises the changes of use permitted by Schedule 2, Part 3 of the GPDO, but it does not mean the right can be used at every property. Each Class has its own lawful-use requirements, restrictions, exclusions and procedures. Read its linked guide and statutory wording before acting. Changes within the same use class may be possible without relying on Part 3, although conditions and other controls still need checking. Where we have articles on this Planning Geek website we have added direct links. P3/Class… refers to the various sections within the GPDO – see this page for all those sections. In addition to the permanent permissions below, there are a number of temporary changes in Schedule 2 Part 4 these are covered here.

You can use our table of GPGO changes to quickly see where the various changes are allowed and where they are not.

For temporary changes of use – see this section.

Other restrictions to changes via Use Class

The table provides a summary for the most common changes of use that apply in most circumstances, but there may also be further restrictions that do not allow you to implement the change of use. For example, if the property is within a Conservation Area, National Park, or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or if the building is a Listed Building or Scheduled Monument, within a site of special scientific interest, safety hazard area, or military explosives area.

Local planning authorities can also remove permitted development rights in certain areas, meaning that you will require planning permission, so you should always check with your local council before you consider undertaking any works.

Some changes of use are also permitted, either only on a temporary basis, and/or subject to additional restrictions.

Prior approval 

Some changes of use are subject to a prior approval procedure with the local planning authority. This seeks approval of various matters, dependent on the nature of the use, but might typically include matters relating to parking and highways, flooding, and contaminated land. In the case of A3 uses, prior approval is required in respect of matters relating to noise, odour, waste collection, impact of the hours of opening, transport and highways impact, impact on existing shopping provision, the design of any external changes and a statement specifying the net increase in dwellinghouses proposed by the development.

Prior approval applications can require a fee to be paid to the local planning authority. The amount depends on the relevant class and can change, so see our planning application fees page for the current position.

Mixed use 

Where a development comprises a “mixed use” in the retail uses classes and betting office / pay day loans shop category with one or two flats above, then there are also some permitted development rights for changes of use of that mixed use, similar to the presiding use identified in the table above. See Class M rights.

Where a property is in two use classes – then it will be classed as sui generis. The one exception is a building with E & B2 use as long as the section allocated to B2 is not substantially increased.

Agricultural buildings 

Class Q can permit qualifying agricultural buildings and certain former agricultural buildings to change to Class C3 homes. The current limits are a cumulative maximum of 10 dwellings and 1,000 m² of new residential floor space within the original limits of an established agricultural unit, with no individual dwelling exceeding 150 m². These totals include earlier Class Q conversions. The agricultural history, existing access, the ability to convert the building, the limited rear-extension conditions, protected-site exclusions and the prior-approval process must all be checked. See full article.

Prior approval under Class Q considers transport and highways, noise, contamination, flooding, suitability of the location and siting, and natural light. Design and external appearance are assessed where relevant conversion operations are proposed; any qualifying rear extension adds an adjoining-premises amenity assessment.

Class R can permit up to 1,000 m² of qualifying agricultural buildings per established agricultural unit to change to a flexible commercial use comprising Class B2 (subject to a narrow agricultural-processing restriction), B8, C1, E or F2(c), or agricultural training. This is subject to meeting certain criteria, and Prior Approval being sought in relation to uses over 150m2 in respect of transport and highways impacts, noise impact, contamination risks and flooding risks. See full article.

Class S can permit qualifying agricultural buildings and their curtilage to change to a state-funded school, with a cumulative 500 m² limit covering both the building floor space and curtilage land changed within the agricultural unit. New nursery conversions are not permitted under Class S. This is subject to meeting certain criteria, and Prior Approval being sought in respect of transport and highways impacts, noise impact, contamination risks, flooding risks and whether the building is suitable for the proposed use.

State funded schools

Buildings and land within C1, C2, C2A and E  uses are permitted to change to a state funded school. This is subject to meeting certain criteria, and Prior Approval being sought in respect of transport and highways impacts, noise impact, and contamination risks.

Changes of use requiring a planning application

Other than for the permitted changes via use class listed above, and changes where both uses fall within the same ‘use class’, planning permission, is generally required for a material change of use.

Most external building work associated with a change of use is also likely to require planning permission, although the The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 does also allow some minor external changes.

Further Assistance

If you need any further assistance for changes via use class, please reach out to us. Planning Geek is able to submit applications for you.

Page updated: 12th August 2026