Do Solar Panels Require Planning Permission?

A solar panel installation can help homeowners to combat rising energy costs and to live a more eco-conscious lifestyle. Solar panels convert the sun’s natural energy into electricity and can create enough power for homeowners to step away from expensive energy companies. Solar panels are installed onto a property's roof, and the photovoltaic cells react with the sunlight, creating a direct electrical current which is converted into usable power for the home. There has never been a better time to invest in solar panels, but do they require planning permission?

If you are considering a solar panel installation, the Jewel Renewables experts are sharing everything you need to know about planning permission and solar panels as a homeowner in the UK.

Is Planning Permission Required for A Solar Panel Installation?

Applying for planning permission is a task that many modern homeowners would like to avoid whenever possible. Unfortunately, if you want to alter your home in one way or another, you may have to apply for permission from the council and your Local Planning Authority.

Home Alterations That Require Planning Permission Include:

· House extensions that cover at least half the land surrounding your home

· Increasing the height of a building

· Building a balcony

· Extending a property towards a road

· A side extension that is larger than half the width of the house

· Any alterations to a listed property or house in a conservation area.

So, what about solar panels? In most circumstances, planning permission is not required for solar panels as the installation is considered to be a permitted development. The government has the Permitted Development scheme in place to give UK homeowners the right to make certain changes to their property without the need for planning permission.

In the majority of circumstances, you can go ahead and make your home more environmentally friendly without having to make any applications to the Local Planning Authority. However, there are some exceptions and the following criteria must be met to install solar panels without planning permission:

· The solar panel system cannot exceed the highest part of the roof (this does not include the chimney)

· The installation must not protrude more than 0.2metres past the plane of the roof slope

· Solar panels must be removed if no longer in use

· The solar panel installation must not negatively impact the appearance or structural integrity of the property

When Is Planning Permission Needed For Solar Panels?

It is always best to research planning permission and building regulations before starting any renovation work. While the majority of homeowners can invest in a solar polar installation with no need for planning permission, there are some exceptions.

‌Properties with a flat roof may require planning permission as the solar panels will need to be placed on a tilted frame. Solar panels need to be installed in this way so they can be angled towards the sun. However, this means the panels will protrude over the allowed 0.2 metres and will no longer be compliant with the permitted development guidelines.

‌If you live in a listed building, it is important that you don’t make any modifications to your home without receiving consent from the appropriate organisations first. Installing solar panels on a listed building can only go ahead if you have received planning permission and listed building consent.

‌In most circumstances, solar panels will still be considered a permitted development for properties in a conservation area, but there is an exception. Planning permission will be needed if the solar panels will be facing a road. Speaking to your local council is the best way to find out for sure if you will need permission to install solar panels or not.

Power Your Home With Jewel Renewables Solar Panels!

If you are looking to improve your home’s carbon footprint, a solar panel installation is an excellent place to start. At Jewel Renewables, we install and supply state-of-the-art solar panels in Surrey, Berkshire, Hampshire and the surrounding local areas. A solar panel installation can help your home to become self-sufficient and reduce your impact on the health of the planet.

‌Contact the Jewel Renewables team today to find out more about our PV solar panels and how an installation can benefit your home. Get in touch by calling 01276 748300 or filling out our online contact form.