Introduction: Navigating the Solar Permission Landscape
Before installing solar panels in the UK, homeowners must navigate a complex web of regulations. While most residential installations don’t require full planning permission, various legal requirements still apply. This guide clarifies exactly what permissions you need—and how to obtain them smoothly.
1. Planning Permission: The General Rules
Permitted Development Rights (Most Homes)
Under Class A of the GPDO, you typically don’t need planning permission if:
- Panels don’t protrude more than 200mm from roof/wall
- Installation isn’t on the principal elevation facing a highway
- Your property isn’t in a conservation area or listed
- For ground mounts: Under 9m² total area
Note: Wales has slightly different permitted development rules.
When Full Planning Permission IS Required:
- Listed buildings (any installation)
- Flats/apartments (considered “non-domestic”)
- Ground mounts over 9m²
- Solar farms (any size)
- Some conservation areas (check local policy)
2. Building Regulations Compliance
Even under permitted development, installations must meet:
Part P (Electrical Safety)
- All work must be done by a competent person (MCS certified)
- Notification to Local Authority unless using MCS installer
Structural Safety (Part A)
- Roof must withstand panel weight + wind/snow loads
- Typically requires structural engineer’s report for older homes
Part L (Energy Efficiency)
- Systems should be sized appropriately for the property
- Battery storage must meet ventilation requirements
3. DNO Notification Requirements
Key Thresholds:
| System Size | Notification Needed? | Timescale |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 3.68kW | G98 fast-track | 28 days |
| 3.68kW-50kW | G99 application | 45-90 days |
| 50kW+ | Full grid study | 6-12 months |
Your installer normally handles this, but check their process.
4. Special Cases: Flats, Rentals & Businesses
A. Flats & Apartments
- Always requires planning permission
- Freeholder consent mandatory
- Service charge implications must be clarified
B. Rented Properties
- Landlord must approve installations
- FiT/SEG payments go to property owner unless contracted otherwise
C. Commercial Buildings
- Different permitted development rules
- Enhanced Capital Allowances available
- Business rates implications for large systems
5. Conservation Areas & Listed Buildings
Conservation Areas
- Many councils impose Article 4 restrictions
- May require non-visible installations (rear roof only)
- Ground mounts often prohibited
Listed Buildings
- Full planning + listed building consent required
- Panels must be reversible (no drilling into historic fabric)
- Some councils allow non-intrusive mounting systems
*Case Study: A Grade II cottage in York secured approval for discreet rear-roof panels after 8-month process.*
6. Ground-Mounted Solar Rules
Residential Ground Arrays
- Under 9m²: Permitted development
- 9m²-50m²: Planning permission needed
- Over 50m²: Treated as solar farm
Key Restrictions:
- Must be within property boundary
- No taller than 4m
- Cannot occupy over 50% of garden area
7. The Paperwork Trail (Step-by-Step)
For Standard Rooftop Installations:
- Confirm permitted development rights (or apply for planning)
- Choose MCS-certified installer (ensures Part P compliance)
- Structural assessment (if roof is older/untested)
- DNO notification (installer submits G98/G99)
- Building control completion certificate (provided by installer)
For Complex Installations:
- Pre-application advice from council (£50-300)
- Planning application (£206-462)
- Listed building consent (£0-1,000+)
- Ecological surveys (if needed)
- Full structural calculations
8. Common Approval Delays & How to Avoid Them
| Issue | Frequency | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Grid capacity limits | 35% of cases | Apply early, consider battery |
| Conservation area rules | 25% | Pre-application consultation |
| Structural concerns | 20% | Get engineer report beforehand |
| Listed building status | 15% | Consider alternative technologies |
| Neighbor objections | 10% | Engage community early |
9. Future Regulatory Changes to Watch
While current 2023 rules apply, proposed changes include:
- Simplified DNO process for systems under 10kW
- New permitted development rights for canopies/carports
- Mandatory solar on new builds (potential 2025 rule)
- Battery storage deregulation (larger home systems)
10. Professional Tips for Smooth Approvals
- Use MCS-certified installers (bypasses most red tape)
- Check council solar policies before purchasing
- Apply in winter when planning departments are less busy
- Consider “retrospective” applications for very small systems
- Document everything in case of disputes
11. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need permission for solar tiles/slates?
A: Yes—same rules apply as for panels, though some councils are more lenient on aesthetics.
Q: Can I install panels on my thatched roof?
A: Extremely difficult; requires specialist structural solutions and almost always needs planning.
Q: Are balcony solar systems allowed?
A: Often falls into a grey area; best to apply for a Lawful Development Certificate.
Q: What about shared roofs in terraces?
A: Requires formal agreement with neighbors and possibly a Party Wall Agreement.
12. Conclusion: Navigating the System Successfully
While UK solar regulations seem complex, most homeowners find:
✔ 80% of installations proceed under permitted development
✔ Professional installers handle 90% of paperwork
✔ Delays are rare for standard rooftop systems
Next Steps:
- Confirm your permitted development rights
- Get a roof assessment from a certified installer
- Start the DNO notification process early
