Question 1

Why are betting shops Sui Generis?

Accepted Answer

Betting shops were removed from Class A2 (financial and professional services) to give planning authorities more control over their number and location. As Sui Generis uses, any new betting shop requires planning permission, allowing councils to apply cumulative impact policies and refuse applications where there is already a concentration of gambling premises.

Question 2

Do I need both planning permission and a gaming licence?

Accepted Answer

Yes — planning permission and a gaming licence are completely separate requirements. Planning permission is granted by the local planning authority and deals with land use. A gaming licence is issued by the Gambling Commission and regulates the gambling activities themselves. Both are required to operate a casino or betting shop.

Question 3

Can a betting shop be converted to a normal shop?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but it requires full planning permission. A change of use from a betting shop (Sui Generis) to a Class E use such as a shop or café requires planning permission. This is often straightforward to obtain as the change removes a gambling use from the high street.

Question 4

Is a bingo hall the same use class as a casino?

Accepted Answer

Bingo halls are also Sui Generis uses. They were formerly in Class D2 (assembly and leisure), which was abolished in 2020. Like casinos, any change of use to or from a bingo hall now requires full planning permission.

Class Sui Generis — Casino, Betting Shop and Amusement Arcade

Examples of Class Sui Generis Uses

Change of Use Rules

Frequently Asked Questions

Need to make a change of use application?

Other Use Classes