In most cases, it is not important to have planning permission for solar panels – however there are still crucial conditions and limits that should be met.
What you need to know about planning permission before getting solar panels
Solar panel installations, both commercial and residential, will normally fall under permitted development rights. This means you can install solar panels without needing to have planning permission from your local council authority.
Permitted development rights
These permit you to modify your home without the need for any approval. These rights are subject to stern rules that are set out to maintain that any modifications made are consistent with the surrounding area.
Typically, solar panels won’t cause any obstructions therefore you will have no reason to get permission for installation.
However, additional units could require planning permission. The panels would then need to be installed in a way that does not impact the appearance of the area.
What are the exceptions for solar panel planning permission?
There are however a few scenarios where these permitted development rights will not apply:
Listed or protected buildings
Residents or occupiers of a listed building must apply for Listed Building Consent for permission to install solar panels. This is due to listed buildings being protected under their historical or cultural significance status, with any changes being monitored closely.
Conservation areas, national parks, and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty
If any premises are located in these areas, planning permission for solar could be required. This is to prevent, at all costs, the negative visual impact of the area. These locations are protected and usually have uncompromising regulations that aim to protect their unique qualities.
World Heritage Sites
World heritage site properties require solar panels to not be visible from the road. These sites are highly likely to need planning permission. Overall, the UK has 35 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Read the full list here.
Check your property to see if you need to have planning permission for solar panels
Luckily, most homes in the UK can install solar without any worries, but if you’re not sure, you can check below with the following links:
Get planning permission then get solar for free
Under the government-backed ECO4 scheme, you can get solar panels installed for free. This is part of a package of measures designed to increase the energy efficiency of UK homes. Moreover, this means less of your energy will be wasted, and you’ll have substantially lower energy bills.
Solar panel planning permission FAQ’s
The first standalone PV installation is considered Permitted Development. Beyond that, any additional units will need planning permission. The solar panels will be required to not impact the appearance of the area.
Neighbours can not object to the installation of solar panels. If solar panels fall under your permitted development rights, or you’ve obtained planning, there’s nothing that they can legally do.
Martin Lewis’s opinion on solar panels is generally a positive one. He believes they can help you spend less on energy, make your home more eco-friendly, and provide a good financial return depending on certain factors relevant to your circumstances. Alongside this, the government-backed programs make solar panels even more attractive and accessible. So, with solar panels, you can not only save money but also contribute to a cleaner and more cost-effective future with clean energy.
Solar panels installations have to pass standard building regulations for the property – this is a legal requirement for many home improvements.
Comments
Hi do need planning permission for external wall installation or this permitted development under eco 4
Hi Kulsum,
Thank you for contacting us, we appreciate your comment.
When applying through ECO4, your installer will take care of all the planning involved with your insulation installation.
Kind Regards
The Energy Advice Helpline.