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Where can I find information about change of use class from C3 to C2?
An application for full planning permission for a change of use is often required when changing from a house (use class C3) to a residential institution (use class C2). This is due to the increased activity which a C2 use would have on the local street area through the addition of visitors, staff and changes to parking.
Read additional information on use classes and changes of use.
Common Questions
Yes, but you will need to obtain planning permission. Converting a detached garage into a self-contained living space, such as annexe, studio flat, or retail unit, represents a material change of use, particularly if it will function independently from the main house. This is because the garage would no longer be used in connection with the main dwelling and would effectively become a separate residential unit.
Maintenance of fascias and soffit boards such as replacement or painting generally does not require planning permission.
However, if you live in a listed building or designated area (conservation area, national park, area of outstanding natural beauty) you should check with your local planning authority before carrying out any work.
Building regulation approval is not normally required for this work, but you should ensure that the ventilation for the building is not impacted.
A 'listed building' is a building, object or structure in the UK that has been considered as of national importance in terms of architectural or historic interest and included on a register called the List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest.
Buildings are listed to help protect the physical evidence of our past, including buildings, which are valued and protected as a central part of our cultural heritage and our sense of identity. Historic buildings also add to the quality of our lives, being an important aspect of the character and appearance of our towns, villages, and countryside.
There are three listing grades:
- Grade I - Buildings of exceptional interest
- Grade II* - Particularly important and more than special interest
- Grade III - Buildings of special interest, warranting every effort being made to preserve them (this is the most common)
If you live in a listed building it means you cannot demolish or alter the building in a way that changes its character without Listed Building Consent.
Verandas will often require planning permission as they do not fall under permitted development rights. If the veranda is raised over 0.3 metres, covers more than 50% of the land around your house, is on the principal elevation or on a roof then it will need planning permission.
You may require additional consents if you live in a Conservation Area or listed building. If you are unsure, you should contact your local planning authority.
For more information about planning permission for verandas and balconies, read our common project.
Planning permission is not required if the home will be used as a short-term let for 90 days or less throughout the year.
If you plan on using the home as a short-term let for more than this time period, then you will need to apply for planning permission for a change of use.
If you rent a room in your property while you still live there, you will not require planning permission.
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