What Planning Permission is Required for Solar Panels in the UK?

With the increasing demand for renewable energy solutions, more homeowners and businesses in the UK are turning to solar panels as a sustainable way to reduce energy costs and lower their carbon footprint. However, before installing solar panels, it's important to understand whether you need planning permission.

In the UK, the installation of solar panels typically does not require planning permission in many cases. However, exceptions and specific conditions may apply, depending on the location and type of property. This blog post will guide you through the planning permission requirements for solar panel installations in the UK.

Do Solar Panels Require Planning Permission?

Solar panels are considered "permitted development" for most domestic properties under UK planning law. This means that, in most cases, you do not need planning permission for solar panels. However, there are some conditions that must be met to ensure the installation complies with local planning regulations.

Key Conditions for Permitted Development:

1. Location of the Panels: Solar panels must be installed on the roof of the property, and the panels must not extend beyond the highest part of the roof (excluding the chimney). If the property is in a conservation area or a listed building, additional restrictions may apply.
2. Size and Height: The solar panels should not exceed a certain size. On a house, the panels should not protrude more than 200mm from the roof plane. The total area covered by solar panels on the roof should not exceed the roof's overall area by more than 50%.
3. Type of Property: If your property is a listed building, you will need to apply for planning permission, as the installation of solar panels could affect the building's historical and architectural significance. Similarly, if your property is in a conservation area, there are more stringent rules around what can and can't be done.
4. Installation on the Front Elevation: Solar panels are generally not permitted on the front-facing roof slope of a property if the house is in a conservation area or designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB). In these cases, you may need to apply for planning permission, regardless of the height or size of the panels.
5. Listed Buildings and Scheduled Monuments: If you live in a listed building or near a scheduled monument, installing solar panels without planning permission could harm the building's heritage value. Planning permission will be required to ensure the installation is done in a way that preserves the character and integrity of the building or monument.
6. Detached and Outbuildings: For outbuildings or detached properties (such as garages or sheds), solar panel installation might also fall under permitted development, provided that the panels do not exceed the size limitations and are not installed on the front elevation.

When Is Planning Permission Required?

There are a few instances where planning permission for solar panels may be required:

1. Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas: If your home is a listed building or located within a conservation area, you will almost certainly need planning permission to install solar panels. This is to ensure that the installation doesn't affect the property's character or the area's visual appeal.
2. Solar Panels on the Front Roof Slope: As mentioned earlier, if you wish to install solar panels on the front roof slope of your property, you will likely need planning permission, particularly if your property is in a designated area such as a conservation area or an AONB.
3. Installation That Exceeds Permitted Development Guidelines: If your solar panel installation exceeds the limits on size, height, or location set by the permitted development guidelines, you will need to apply for planning permission. For example, if the panels extend further than allowed or cover a larger proportion of the roof than permitted, planning approval will be required.
4. Ground-Mounted Solar Panels: If you are installing solar panels on the ground (rather than the roof), planning permission is more likely to be needed. Ground-mounted solar panels are subject to more restrictions and are typically not considered permitted development unless they meet specific size and location criteria.

How to Apply for Planning Permission

If you determine that planning permission is required, the process typically involves submitting an application to your local planning authority (LPA). The application should include details about the installation, including the location, size, and design of the solar panels, as well as any other relevant information, such as how the installation will impact the surrounding environment.

It is always a good idea to contact your local planning authority before proceeding with your installation to ensure that you are fully aware of any requirements or restrictions specific to your area. This can help prevent delays or complications down the line.

Benefits of Solar Panels

While the planning permission process can seem daunting, the long-term benefits of installing solar panels far outweigh the administrative steps. Solar panels help homeowners and businesses reduce their reliance on the grid, lower energy bills, and reduce their carbon footprint. Additionally, the UK government offers various incentives, such as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), to support those investing in renewable energy.

Conclusion

In most cases, solar panel installation in the UK is permitted development and does not require planning permission. However, there are some exceptions, especially if the property is listed, located in a conservation area, or if the installation exceeds certain size or location restrictions. Always check with your local planning authority before proceeding with your installation to ensure you comply with any specific rules or regulations.

If you're considering installing solar panels, the expert team at FitSolar can help you navigate the planning process and ensure your installation is efficient, cost-effective, and fully compliant with all legal requirements.

Get in touch today to learn more about solar panel installations and how we can help you make the most of renewable energy for your home or business.