What is Class C Planning Usage?

Class C Planning Usage refers to a category within the UK's Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended), encompassing various types of residential and accommodation uses. This classification includes properties such as hotels, care homes, dwelling houses, and houses in multiple occupation (HMOs). Understanding Class C is essential for property owners, developers, and investors, as it determines the permitted use of a property and the need for planning permission when considering a change of use.

Main Use Class C – Accommodation Categories

Class C is subdivided into several categories, each defining specific types of residential accommodations:​

C1 – Hotels and Hostels

Use:

Class C1 is designated for hotels, boarding or guest houses, and hostels where no significant element of care is provided.​

Examples:

• Hotels

• Guest Houses

• Hostels​

[Note: Permanent residential use is not permitted under Class C1.]​

C2 – Residential Institutions

Use:

Class C2 encompasses residential accommodation and care for people in need of care (excluding use within Class C3 - dwelling houses).​

Examples:

• Hospitals

• Nursing Homes

• Residential Schools

• Colleges

• Training Centres

[Note: Facilities under Class C2 are subject to health and safety regulations and require planning permission for any change of use.]​

C2A – Secure Residential Institutions

Use:

Class C2A is designated for secure residential accommodation, including:​

• Prisons

• Young Offenders Institutions

• Detention Centres

• Secure Training Centres

• Custody Centres

• Short-Term Holding Centres

• Secure Hospitals

• Secure Local Authority Accommodation

• Military Barracks​

[Note: These are specialized facilities with strict regulations, typically operated by public or government bodies.]​

C3 – Houses, Flats, Apartments

Use:

Class C3 pertains to dwelling houses (whether or not as a sole or main residence).​

Applicable to:

• A single person or people living together as a family

• Not more than six residents living together as a single household (including households where care is provided)​

[Note: Class C3 is relevant for most standard house purchases, renovations, and new residential developments.]​

C4 – Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO)

Use:

Class C4 is designated for small shared dwelling houses occupied by between three to six unrelated individuals as their only or main residence, who share basic amenities such as a kitchen or bathroom.​

[Note: Planning permission may be required for converting properties to Class C4, especially in areas with Article 4 Directions.​]

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between Class C3 and C4?
Class C3 pertains to single households or families, while Class C4 is designated for small HMOs occupied by three to six unrelated individuals sharing amenities.​

2. Do I need planning permission to convert a house to an HMO?
In many areas, yes. Especially if there is an Article 4 Direction in place. Always check with your local planning authority.​

3. Can I turn a hotel into flats?
Converting a Class C1 (hotel) into Class C3 (flats) usually requires full planning permission and may involve meeting building regulations and local planning policies.