Planning permission

In most cases, installing solar panels on your home does not require full planning permission. Most installations fall under Permitted Development rights. However, several specific rules and exceptions apply depending on your property type and location.

Roof-mounted solar panels (England)

Solar panels mounted on the roof of a house or block of flats are usually Permitted Development, provided:

  • Projection: The panels do not protrude more than 200mm from the roof slope.
  • Height: The panels are not higher than the highest part of the roof (excluding chimneys).
  • Aesthetics: They are installed, so far as is practicable, to minimise the effect on the external appearance of the building.
  • Redundancy: Panels must be removed as soon as reasonably practicable when no longer needed.

Ground-mounted solar panels

You can also install ground-mounted panels under Permitted Development, but the rules are stricter:

  • Size: The system must not exceed 9 square metres in area.
  • Height: The maximum height is 4 metres.
  • Location: It must be at least 5 metres from the property boundary.
  • Quantity: Only one ground-mounted system is allowed per property.

Exceptions and restrictions

1. Conservation Areas and AONBs

In Conservation Areas or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs), Permitted Development usually still applies, but you cannot install panels on a wall or roof slope that faces a highway.

2. Listed Buildings

If your home is a Listed Building, Permitted Development rights do not apply. You will almost always need Listed Building Consent and full planning permission.

3. Flat Roofs

For flat roofs, panels are often mounted on frames. If these frames protrude more than 200mm above the roofline, you may need planning permission.

4. Article 4 Directions

Some local authorities have “Article 4 Directions” in place that remove Permitted Development rights for a specific street or area.

Important: Rules differ in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. For example, in Scotland, you may need planning permission for panels on a flat roof or if the property is in a conservation area. Always check with your local planning department.

Building Regulations

Even if you don’t need planning permission, your installation must comply with Building Regulations. This ensures that:

  • The roof can support the additional weight of the panels.
  • The electrical installation is safe and correctly connected.
  • The system is properly fixed to resist wind loads.

Your MCS-certified installer will typically handle the Building Regulations notifications and certification as part of their service.