Installing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems is a smart move for generating renewable energy, protecting the environment, and cutting down on electricity expenses. But many people wonder about solar panels and planning permissions. Do you need to apply for planning permission when installing solar panels? For most situations, the answer is no.

Generally speaking, solar panels fall under "permitted development," meaning you don't usually need to seek planning permission. However, there are exceptions. Your solar panels must adhere to specific guidelines to avoid complications. Familiarizing yourself with these rules before installation is always wise. Let’s explore these conditions further.

Before proceeding with your solar PV setup, it’s crucial to understand the regulations. While most installations are straightforward, there are particular requirements that must be met to stay compliant. This article aims to provide clarity on these aspects.

Basics of Solar Panels and Planning Permission

Solar panels typically qualify for “permitted development rights,” allowing them to be installed without explicit planning approval.

These rights enable certain construction activities without needing permission. Still, your solar PV system must follow specific criteria:

• The equipment attached to a building should blend in as much as possible without altering the building’s aesthetic or the surrounding area.
• Solar panels cannot exceed the height of the roof’s highest point, excluding chimneys.
• Panels should not protrude more than 200mm (0.2m) from the roof slope or wall surface.
• Solar panels are generally prohibited within the grounds of listed buildings or scheduled monuments.
• Once no longer in use, the equipment must be removed.

Additional rules apply to buildings in conservation areas, which we'll discuss later.

All Solar Together installers are MCS certified and capable of designing your system according to planning permission standards.

Standalone Solar Panels and Permitted Development Rights

While not available through Solar Together, it's essential to know that standalone solar panels (those not mounted on rooftops) have their own set of rules. Besides meeting the general criteria, standalone panels must be at least five meters from the property boundary and cannot exceed four meters in height. The entire array must measure less than 9m x 3m x 3m. Permitted development rights apply only to the first installation; subsequent installations require planning permission.

The easiest and most practical solution is to install solar panels on your roof. Through Solar Together, you can do so while enjoying reduced installation costs.

When Is Planning Permission Required for Solar Panels?

If your proposed solar PV installation doesn't meet the permitted development criteria, you may need to apply for planning permission. Here are three common scenarios where planning permission might be necessary. Check if your roof is suitable for solar panels.

Installing Solar Panels on a Flat Roof

Solar PV panels can be installed on flat roofs. Typically, they're placed in frames to create an angle facing the sun. To minimize wind effects, the panels are usually arranged horizontally. Additionally, sufficient spacing between rows of solar panels on a flat roof prevents shading issues.

Flat roof installations involve extra costs, which will be detailed in your Personal Recommendation if you have a flat roof. After assessing your roof, the installer will suggest the optimal panel arrangement.

Structural engineers often conduct surveys for flat roofs to ensure their compatibility with solar panels. Your installer can provide more information, but you may need to arrange this yourself, which incurs additional costs.

Installing Solar Panels in a Conservation Area

A conservation area refers to locations with significant historical or architectural features of national importance. There are approximately 10,000 conservation areas in England.

You can usually install solar panels in conservation areas or World Heritage Sites without planning permission, provided they aren't visible from public roads. Always consult your local authority if you're unsure.

Installing Solar Panels on a Listed Building

A listed building is a structure recognized for its national historical or architectural significance. If you reside in a Grade I, Grade II*, or Grade II listed building, you must obtain listed building consent to install solar panels. Historic England and relevant heritage societies must approve any changes affecting a listed building’s character. This also applies to installing solar PV systems within the grounds of a listed building or on non-listed structures within such grounds.

Listed building consent differs from standard planning permission and must be sought through the local planning authority.

How to Apply for Solar PV Planning Permission

If you believe you need planning permission for your solar PV system, the first step is contacting the Planning Portal for guidance. They can advise whether you require planning permission and outline any regulations your application must follow.

Applying for planning permission can take several weeks for a response from your planning authority. It's advisable to request permission before scheduling the installation of your solar PV system. Once approved, you have three years to commence development.

You can initiate your planning application via the Planning Portal website, where they’ll guide you through each step until a decision is reached.

What Happens If My Solar Panel Planning Application Is Denied?

Most planning permission applications take around eight weeks to process. Longer periods usually apply only to exceptionally large or complex projects.

Provided you've adhered to all the regulations mentioned earlier, there's no reason your application shouldn't be approved. However, if denied, you won't be able to proceed with your solar PV installation.

When accepting your personal recommendation and deciding to proceed with an installation through Solar Together, you'll be required to pay a deposit. Rest assured, if your planning permission is rejected, you'll receive a full refund of your deposit.

Contact Solar Together Today

At Solar Together, we recognize that the upfront cost of solar PV systems can be discouraging for those eager to adopt sustainable solar energy. That’s why we developed Solar Together: a unique group-buying initiative making solar PV more affordable and accessible to homeowners across the UK.

If you reside in a participating council area, you can sign up for the Solar Together group-buying scheme today. We collaborate with your local authority to gather residents and secure discounts on solar PV installations—group purchases always yield better prices.

Solar Together thoroughly vets installers to ensure high-quality service. We also offer battery storage packages and electric vehicle (EV) charge point installation as optional extras.

Whether you’re looking to enhance your home’s sustainability or reduce energy costs, Solar Together offers tailored solutions to fit your needs. Join us today and take the first step toward a greener future!