Class R Permitted Development: Agricultural to Commercial Use
Class R prior approval allows agricultural buildings up to 500m² to change use to shops, offices, and other commercial uses. Here are the conditions and application process.

Practical guidance on Permitted Development and householder projects in England — what the rules allow, what they limit, and what it means for your drawings.
Start with the PD guideOur detailed guidance pages, organised by the kind of project you are planning.
Permitted Development rulesThe limits that apply to each type of householder project.View articles
ExtensionsSingle storey rear, side and two storey rear extensions.View articles
Lofts and roofsLoft conversions, dormers and roof alterations.View articles
Garden buildingsOutbuildings, garden rooms and garages.View articles
Around the housePorches, conservatories, windows and doors.View articles
Boundaries and outsideFences, walls, gates, patios and driveways.View articles From our Permitted Development and planning article library.
Class R prior approval allows agricultural buildings up to 500m² to change use to shops, offices, and other commercial uses. Here are the conditions and application process.
A Class Q prior approval application needs a structural survey, existing/proposed plans, and a supporting statement. Here’s the step-by-step process and common mistakes.
Class Q prior approval allows agricultural buildings to be converted to homes without full planning permission. Here are the conditions, floor area limits, and application process.
An in-ground swimming pool is usually permitted development — no planning permission needed. Here’s when rules apply, what pool enclosures must comply with, and costs.
Sheds and summerhouses are almost always permitted development. Here are the exact height limits, the 50% curtilage rule, and when you do need planning permission.
A garden office is almost always permitted development — no planning permission needed. Find out what building regs apply and how to connect power and broadband.
PERMITTED HOMEOWNER GUIDES
Our illustrated, practical guides help you understand the rules, explore design options and budget with confidence — before you commit to building work.
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Rules, design options, costs and next steps.
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Rules, design options, costs and next steps.
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Rules, design options, costs and next steps.
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Rules, design options, costs and next steps.
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Rules, design options, costs and next steps.
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Rules, design options, costs and next steps.
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Rules, design options, costs and next steps.
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Rules, design options, costs and next steps.
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Maximize your property’s footprint with precision and ease. Permitted provides complete design for Permitted Development Rights. Our packages are designed around the Permitted Development limits, so many projects can proceed without a full planning application.
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