No, you do not require planning permission to add solar panels to your home, but if you are adding extra square feet to your property and it could impact the space and light of your neighbours like a loft conversion or an extension over the garage, this certainly requires planning permission.
Around 5% of Brits now have solar panels on their homes and it is a great way to lower your energy bills once you have covered the cost of purchase and installation. It also helps the environment and decreases your carbon footprint.
With the growing trend of renewable energy, more and more UK homeowners are considering adding solar panels to their homes. However, before starting the installation process, it’s important to understand whether you need planning permission.
Permitted Development Rights
In most cases, you do not need planning permission to install solar panels on your home in the UK. This is because solar panel installations typically fall under what is known as “permitted development rights.” These rights allow certain home improvements and alterations to be made without needing to apply for planning permission, as long as the work meets specific conditions.
For solar panels, these conditions generally include ensuring that the panels do not protrude more than 200mm from the roof or wall surface. The installation should also not be higher than the highest part of the roof, excluding the chimney. If these conditions are met, you can proceed with the installation without needing to contact your local planning authority.
Exceptions to Permitted Development Rights
While most homeowners can install solar panels under permitted development rights, there are some exceptions.
If your home is in a designated area, such as a conservation area, a World Heritage Site, or an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), you may need to apply for planning permission. In these areas, there are stricter controls on what can be done to properties to preserve the character and appearance of the area.
Additionally, if you live in a listed building, you will almost certainly need planning permission and possibly listed building consent. Listed buildings are protected by law due to their historical or architectural importance, and any alterations that affect their character require special permission. (Source: Premier Lofts)
Ground-Mounted Installations
For ground-mounted solar panels, the rules are slightly different. You may need planning permission if the panels cover a large area or if they are installed in a prominent location that could affect the visual amenity of the area. It’s important to check with your local planning authority if you are considering ground-mounted panels, as they can provide specific guidance based on your property and location.
Roof or Wall-Mounted Installations
The most common type of solar panel installation is roof-mounted, where panels are fixed to the roof of your home. As mentioned earlier, this type of installation usually falls under permitted development rights, provided certain conditions are met.
If you are considering a wall-mounted installation, the same general rules apply, but with added caution. The panels must not protrude more than 200mm from the wall surface and should not be installed on the front or side of your home if it faces a road. This is to ensure that the appearance of the building and the surrounding area is not negatively impacted.
Get Advice From The Government Portal
Even if you believe your solar panel installation falls under permitted development rights, it’s always a good idea to double-check with your local planning authority. They can confirm whether you need planning permission and provide advice tailored to your specific case.
You can also visit the Planning Portal, the UK Government’s online resource for planning information, which offers detailed guidance on the rules and regulations for installing solar panels and other home improvements.
In almost every case, you will not need planning permission to put solar panels on your home in the UK. However, if your home is in a designated area or is a listed building, you may need to apply for permission. To avoid hefty fines and the costs of adding and removing them, it is always good to check with your local planning authority to ensure that you comply with any regulations.
