What is a change of use? What types of changes of use require a permit? Quick Guide to Change of Use: Everything You Need to Know What is a Change of Use? If you're thinking about changing the use of a property, you should know what it entails. A change of use occurs when a building or property is used for a purpose other than that for which it was originally intended. Transforming a residential property into a business space or transforming a retail store into a residential