Find out if you need planning permission to install solar panels.

Are you thinking of installing solar panels for your home? In many instances you won’t need to worry about planning permission. But before you start, it’s always a good idea to make sure.

So, to avoid wasted time, effort and cost, check out our helpful guide to planning permission for adding solar panels to your home.

Planning permission and permitted development.

We’ve all heard that getting planning permission can be long and strenuous, and many of us have heard horror stories about it.

But before we complain about the bureaucracy surrounding developments, it’s worth noting how planning permission actually benefits us all.

Planning permission: it’s not all bad.

In general, it aims to control the location, scale and type of development to prevent anything that might harm the local area and ensure that any changes to buildings or land benefit the wider community and the environment, not just the individual or company looking to develop.

It takes into account any potential impact that development might have on the environment, such as preserving natural habitats, managing flood risks, and minimising pollution.

It also helps to protect areas of historical and architectural importance so we can all enjoy the qualities that make these areas unique.

And when it comes to the actual construction, the authorities that grant planning permission will make sure that they are built to the highest, safest standards.

So, while planning permission is there to protect the wider community, there have been attempts to streamline the process.

And that’s where permitted developments come in.

Permitted development: the quicker way.

Permitted development (PD) is a set of rules or generous limitations that allow homeowners to carry out certain types of building work and alterations to their property without the need to apply for full (and costly) planning permission.

These limitations are a careful balance designed to streamline the administrative burden on homeowners and local planning authorities while still looking after the wider community.

There are a number of home improvements that most authorities usually classify as permitted developments. Things such as loft extensions, outbuildings, and so on.

But it’s worth pointing out that permitted developments are not an “anything goes” type of legislation.

You may have noticed that we called them “generous limitations”. That means there are still some limits on what you can - and can’t - do to your property. No one is going to let you build a skyscraper in your back garden, for instance!

What permission is needed to install solar panels?

The good news is, in most cases you do not need planning permission for solar panels - they are usually classed as a permitted development.

Although the reasons for this vary from authority to authority, the fact that solar panels have a positive impact on the environment is probably a large contributing factor.

And of course, we can’t speak for every instance or for every local planning authority. You should always check before you proceed with solar installation as they can provide you with specific rules and regulations for you and your situation.

There are limits to the size and position of your solar panels and where they are situated in relation to any roads and boundaries near you.

And, of course, building regulations and safety rules must be followed for any alteration.

How many solar panels can you have without planning permission?

This depends on whether your panels are mounted on your roof or the ground.

Roof mounted solar panels.

You don’t normally need planning permission for roof mounted panels as long as they don’t protrude more than 20cm from the roof surface and they are not installed above the highest part of your roof (excluding chimneys)

Ground mounted solar panels.

You can generally install one ground mounted system without planning permission, but it usually has to meet specific criteria, such as being a maximum height or minimum distance from your property boundary. Your local planning authority will be able to provide you with the exact details.

The power of your installation.

Planning authorities aren’t usually concerned about the power of your solar panel system. Still, if your system capacity exceeds 3.68kWp (kilowatt-peak), you will need approval from your Distribution Network Operator whether you need planning permission or not.

Are there exceptions where I might need planning permission for my solar panels?

Although most solar panel installations are classed as permitted developments, you may need planning permission in the following situations.

Listed buildings.

If you live in a listed building, you will probably need planning permission and listed building consent. You usually get this from your local authority’s conservation officer.

Conservation areas.

If you live in a conservation area, or maybe a World Heritage site, you may have restrictions, especially if your panels can be seen from the road or affect the area's character.

Flats.

Think back to when we said planning permission was about protecting the wider community. Well, if you live in a flat, your community is literally all around you. That’s why installing solar panels here will usually require planning permission and permission from the freeholder or management company.

Non-domestic buildings.

Non-domestic buildings usually have some permitted development rights, but not always all of them. It varies from authority to authority, and it is always worth checking.

How to make a planning application.

So, let’s assume you have to make a planning application for your solar panels. Here is a quick “how to” for your general guidance on submitting that application.

As we said, you don't usually need planning permission to install solar panels. However, always confirm this with your local authority.

If it turns out that you do need planning permission, you must submit an application to the local planning authority. This is usually done online through the Planning Portal. (Search for “Planning Portal” to find their website.)

Collect all the necessary information and documents for your application. This usually includes:

• A completed planning application form specific to your local authority.

• A plan showing the location of your property to its surroundings.

• A detailed plan of your property showing the proposed location of the solar panels.

• Drawings showing the front, rear, and side elevations of your property with the solar panels.

• Information about the size, number and type of solar panels you plan to install.

• An assessment of how the solar panels will affect the visual appearance of the building and the surrounding area.

• Any other documents required by your local authority, such as a heritage statement or a tree survey (check with them before you submit your application).

Once you've gathered everything, submit your application through the Planning Portal and pay the application fee.

The local planning authority will review your application and make a decision. This usually takes around eight weeks. You'll be notified of the decision in writing.

Mistakes to avoid with your planning application.

Any mistakes with your application can hold you up and even lead you to having to start the whole process over again. These are some of the more common errors.

Incomplete applications.

• Missing documents and information is one of the most frequent reasons for planning applications being rejected or delayed. Include all the forms, plans, drawings, supporting statements, and any other relevant documentation your local planning authority has asked for. Check their website or speak to them directly to make sure you have everything you need.

• Double-check all details provided in your application. Any inconsistencies in measurements, site information, or proposed details can lead to delays in the planning process.

Ignoring local regulations.

• Every local planning authority has its own set of policies and guidelines. These outline the types of development likely to be approved in different areas and any design considerations or restrictions. Familiarise yourself with these policies early on to avoid proposing an installation that is unlikely to be granted permission.

• Consider the impact your proposed solar panels might have on neighbouring properties. We're talking about the external appearance, along with overshadowing or overlooking another property. Failure to address these potential concerns can lead to objections from neighbours, which may complicate the planning process.

Poor site assessment.

• A comprehensive site survey will give the planning authorities a good understanding of your site's constraints and opportunities. This might include topographical surveys, ecological surveys, tree surveys and so on. Failure to conduct them can lead to unforeseen issues later in the planning process, which could delay or even derail your project.

• Planning authorities are paying more and more attention to sustainable development and environmental protection. So, make sure you have considered the environmental impact of your solar panels. Failure to address these concerns could result in your application being refused.

Planning permission? Don’t panic.

So let’s say it one more time. Most solar panel installations do not need planning permission as they are usually classed as permitted developments. Local authorities want to protect communities from unreasonable developments, but many of them see the positive environmental impact of solar panels. So, as long as they’re done properly, you should get permission.

However, it is always worth checking with your local planning authority to make sure that your individual installation complies.

If it turns out that you do need permission for some reason, don’t panic. As long as you follow the guidelines of your local authority and clearly communicate your aims to them, you should find the whole process straightforward.

And when you get the go ahead for your solar panels, why not check out if you are eligible for a grant to help cover the costs?

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How solar panels are installed.

See how solar panels and battery storage are installed with our customer and colleague, Brian who shares his home installation journey.