Do You Need Planning Permission for Solar Panels?
One of the most overlooked steps in installing solar panels in the United Kingdom is checking local regulations. It’s essential to ask yourself, “Do you need planning permission for solar panels?” before installing your solar system, and not assume that you can proceed immediately.
Planning regulations may appear complex at first, but understanding them will help you avoid issues, delays, and costs during your installation. This guide will explain when you need permission, how to apply for planning permission, and the mistakes to avoid along the way.
When Do You Need Planning Permission for Solar Panels in the UK?
To answer the question, “Do you need planning permission for solar panels in the UK?” the answer often depends on your property’s location, the type of installation, and whether your plans meet the UK’s permitted development conditions.
In many cases, solar panels on homes do not require planning permission, but certain exceptions apply. Knowing these will help you ensure your installation is compliant from the start. Below are key factors that determine if you need permission:
1. Types of Properties: Residential Homes vs. Business Buildings
For residential homes, most solar panel installations do not require planning permission if they comply with permitted development rules. These rules state that panels should not protrude more than 20 centimetres from the roof slope and must not exceed the highest point of the roof. Panels should also be sited to minimise visual impact on the building and the surrounding area.
For business buildings, rules are similar but may vary depending on the local authority and the size of the installation. Larger commercial installations may require planning permission if they exceed certain thresholds for size, placement, or impact on the area. Always check with your local planning authority for confirmation.
2. Location of Your Property
If you ever wonder, “Do solar panels require planning permission?” the answer is a big yes if your property is in a conservation area, National Park, or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You will need planning permission if your solar panels in these areas are visible from a public highway to preserve the area's character.
Listed buildings also need listed building consent before making changes, including installing solar panels. Listed buildings are buildings officially protected by law in the UK because of their special architectural or historical importance. Always confirm your property’s designation with your local council to prevent violations.
3. Type of Installation: Roof-Mounted or Ground-Mounted
Roof-mounted panels typically do not require planning permission if they follow the guidelines provided by your local council. They should not extend beyond 20 centimetres from the roof’s surface and are not higher than the roof’s highest point, excluding chimneys. They should also be positioned carefully in a way that reduces their visual impact, especially in sensitive areas.
Ground-mounted or standalone solar panels, however, have specific conditions. The array should not exceed nine square metres, and the height must not exceed four metres. Panels should also be positioned at least five metres away from the property boundary to qualify under permitted development. For larger arrays, you should check with your local authority
4. Using Portable Solar Panels
Suppose you use foldable and portable solar panels placed outside your house on the ground. In that case, they generally don’t require planning permission since they are temporary and not fixed permanently to the ground or any structure. A portable solar panel is usually used for travel, camping, and backup power at home
Planning permission rules under The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 generally apply to “development,” which includes permanent structures or alterations.
A portable solar panel used for charging a portable power station or for occasional use is considered equipment in use rather than a building alteration or development.
How to Apply for Planning Permission for Solar Panels
The answer to the question, “Do you need planning permission for solar panels?” is yes if your home is in a protected area or your planned installation exceeds the allowed limits. In these cases, applying for planning permission becomes necessary to ensure compliance and avoid future issues. Here’s a step-by-step guide for planning permission to complete your application efficiently:
1. Check Local Authority Requirements
First, contact your local planning authority to confirm if planning permission is required for your solar installation. Councils like Bristol, Cornwall, and Medway provide guidance online, but it is helpful to seek direct confirmation for your specific property. This step will help you understand the documents you need, the application fees, and the requirements for your location.
2. Prepare Your Application Documents
You will need to submit a site location plan, detailed drawings of the proposed installation, and technical specifications of the solar panels. Ensure your plans clearly show where and how the panels will be installed while complying with height and placement regulations. If your home is a listed building, you must also apply for listed building consent separately.
3. Submit Your Planning Application
Applications can usually be submitted online via your local council’s planning portal or in person if required. Fees for householder planning permission in England typically start around £258. Double-check with your council for the exact amount of fees. Your local council will review your application and may also consult your neighbours if needed.
4. Await Decision and Respond if Needed
Councils generally decide on applications within eight weeks, although it may take longer for more complex cases. During this period, you may receive queries from the planning officer, and it is important to respond promptly. Once approved, you can proceed with your solar installation. If it’s rejected, your council will provide reasons, and you may revise your plans or appeal the decision.
Mistakes to Avoid When Planning Permission for Solar Panels
If the answer to your question, “Do you need planning permission for solar panels?” is yes, there are some things you need to keep in mind before starting the installation process. Avoiding common mistakes will save you from costly delays and potential removal orders in the future. Here are the key mistakes you should avoid:
1. Skipping Local Authority Confirmation
Don’t assume that permitted development rights apply without checking with your local council. Don’t skip asking yourself, “Is planning permission required for solar panels?” If you overlook this precautionary step, this can lead to enforcement actions if your installation does not comply with local restrictions. Always confirm, even if you believe you meet general conditions.
2. Ignoring Rules for Listed Buildings and Protected Areas
Installing panels on listed buildings or in conservation areas without permission is a common mistake. Being aware of the rules and ignoring them can lead to fines, legal notices, and the need to remove the panels. If your property falls within these categories, apply for listed building consent and planning permission before installing solar panels.
3. Incorrect Panel Positioning
Solar panels installed too close to the edge of the roof or placed beyond the roof slope may breach permitted development conditions. This can result in your council requesting the removal or repositioning of your panels. Ensure your installer understands these limits and follows them.
Panels should not be placed more than 20 centimetres from the roof or be higher than the roof’s peak. Ground-mounted panels should meet the area and height requirements and be sited at least five metres from property boundaries.
4. Misunderstanding Portable Solar Panel Usage
If you have portable panels, like the EcoFlow 400W Portable Solar Panel, you won’t normally need permission. This panel delivers up to 400W of solar input at 23 % conversion efficiency, packs down into a one‑piece folding design with integrated, adjustable kickstand, and carries an IP68 waterproof rating for reliable off‑grid use.
EcoFlow 400W Portable Solar Panel
EcoFlow solar panels are typically paired with power stations, such as the EcoFlow DELTA Pro Ultra Power Station—a true off‐grid powerhouse offering up to 6 kWh of capacity, a 6900W inverter, 20ms UPS switching, and five fast‑refill methods including solar, AC, generator, and EV charging. This combination can power everything from camping lights to your entire home during a blackout without ever being a fixed installation.
However, if you plan to leave these portable panels permanently outside your house with anchors or mounts, you may need permission. You may also need permission if you use it daily in a permanent position or connect it to your home’s electrical system permanently. Your local planning authority may interpret this as a ground-mounted solar installation, which has rules on limits.
Conclusion
“Do you need planning permission for solar panels?” Generally, most domestic or residential homes can install solar panels without permission under permitted development rights as long as you follow the conditions set out by local councils. However, listed buildings, conservation areas, and large ground-mounted panels often require permission.
Checking with your local council is always the safest step before installing your solar plans and prevents costly issues in the future. By planning carefully, you can proceed with your solar panel installation confidently and responsibly. Checking the rules is an essential step before starting your commitment to sustainable and clean energy generation.
FAQs
How many solar panels can I have without planning permission?
There is no strict limit on the number of panels you can install without planning permission, provided they meet permitted development conditions, such as not exceeding 20 centimetres from the roof surface and not extending above the highest part of the roof. For ground-mounted panels, the array should not exceed nine square metres, and the height should not exceed four metres.
Can my neighbour object to solar panels?
Your neighbours can raise objections if you apply for planning permission and your installation affects their property, such as blocking light or views. However, if your installation falls under permitted development rights, you generally do not need neighbour approval unless specific local conditions apply.
Do I need permission to put solar panels on my roof?
In most cases, you do not need permission to put solar panels on your roof under permitted development rights, provided the installation meets size and placement conditions. However, permission is required if your property is a listed building or located in a conservation area and the panels face a highway.
What permission is needed for solar panel installation?
If your installation does not qualify under permitted development, you will need to apply for householder planning permission from your local planning authority. Listed building consent may also be required for listed properties. Always check your local council’s guidelines to confirm what permissions are needed for your solar installation.