The change of use proposals for an existing building (or units within the building) should conform with the planning intention of the site and planning policies. The new use should be compatible with the surrounding uses and not cause adverse impact to the community. Where the change of use involves an enhancement in value, it may be subject to payment of development charge or differential premium.
Uses are broadly grouped into 17 Use Classes. A Use Class is a group of building uses with similar mode of operation or impact to the surrounding. A use that does not belong to any use class is termed as “unclassified use” and requires planning permission.
For more examples and definition of uses,
please see
Definition of Uses table.
When is planning permission required?
Planning permission is required when the proposed change of use involves:
Changing from one use class to another
Changing from one use class to an unclassified use or vice versa
Changing from an unclassified use to another unclassified use
Certain proposals in selected buildings can be lodged and granted instant approval under the Change of Use Lodgment Scheme. Please refer to lodgment criteria and types of buildings eligible for this lodgment scheme.
When is planning permission not required?
Planning permission is not required for:
Change of uses within the same use class (e.g. shop to clinic or beauty salon)
Change of uses that are authorised under the following categories:
General Information 
