I am based in the UK and want to know if I can use my domestic
property as an art gallery.  The gallery will display works of art by
various artists and public attendance will be by invitation only. 
Will I fall foul planning law if I do this?

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Request for Question Clarification by answerfinder-ga on 22 May 2006 10:01 PDT

Dear runaway-ga,

It would depend on whether this is a business, how often this would
occur, how many people would attend on each occasion, and whether
there would be a material change of use of the premises, and how it
would affect your neighbours. The ultimate decision lies with your
local council. I suspect that a researcher would be reluctant to
pre-guess their answer. However, if you can supply some of this
information, a researcher may be able to point you towards some advice
on this, but not the answer.

answerfinder-ga

It would also be advisable to look at your property deeds/lease.

It's possible that there may be some restrictive covenants.

It's also possible that a flood of visitors may cause complaints from
neighbours, some of whom can be jealous/nosy.

Also, do check your insurances so that you are properly covered. This
is easily fixed, if necessary.

Good Luck!