At Carbon Central, we specialise in navigating the complexities surrounding solar panel installations. Here’s a simplified guide to help you understand when you might need planning permission for your solar setup:
General Rule: Planning Permission is not needed
- For most domestic installations on pitched roofs, planning permission isn’t usually required. These setups generally fall within building regulations that don’t necessitate additional permissions.
- Commercial Installations: Similarly, solar panels on existing commercial buildings often qualify as ‘permitted developments’.
Building Regulations for Solar Panels
Before you start, it’s crucial to understand building regulations:
- Installation Safety: Choose an MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) approved installer to ensure compliance with safety standards, which also impacts your home insurance and resale value.
- Panel Placement: Panels must be installed no higher than the roof’s apex or ridge tiles and should be at least 15 cm from the roof’s edge.
When Planning Permission is Required
While not common, there are scenarios where planning permission is necessary:
- Listed Buildings: Installing solar panels on listed buildings requires ‘Listed Building Consent’ from your local council due to the preservation of architectural or historic interest. This consent is separate from planning permission.
- Ground-Mounted Solar Panels for Homes: If you’re considering ground installation due to an insufficient or unsuitable roof, permission isn’t needed if the installation:
- Is within a 9-metre square area.
- Does not exceed 4 metres in height.
- Is at least 5 meters from boundaries and not within a listed building’s boundary.
- Places of Worship: Modern places of worship might not require special permissions, but listed or historically significant buildings do, potentially involving denominational advisory committees or listed building consent.
- Scheduled Monuments: Any work near these sites needs special consent from the Secretary of State, not just local planning authorities.
- Wildlife Considerations: The presence of protected species like bats or nesting birds can influence planning permissions. Always consult Natural England or similar bodies for guidance.
Commercial Property Solar Installations
For businesses, solar panels on buildings do not need planning if they:
- Do not extend more than 200mm from the wall or roof.
- Are at least 1 metre from roof or wall edges.
- For flat roofs, installations should not exceed 1 meter above the roof and be lower than other roof installations.
Utility-Scale Solar or Solar Farms
These larger installations always require planning due to their size and impact. Factors like flood risk, land use, and community objections play significant roles in whether permissions are granted.
- Legislation: Planning for utilities varies across the UK, with each region potentially having different rules and processes.
At Carbon Central, we stay updated with the latest regulations to assist you in making environmentally friendly choices without legal headaches. Whether it’s for your home, business, or a larger scale project, we’re here to ensure your solar journey is smooth and compliant.
Note: The information here can change, so always check with local auth
