Most domestic solar panel installations do not require planning permission, but there are important exceptions. Here is everything you need to know before installing solar in the UK.
Permitted Development Rights
In England, solar panel installations on domestic properties are generally classed as permitted development, which means you do not need to apply for planning permission. This applies to both roof-mounted and wall-mounted solar panels on houses. The rules allow you to install solar panels without permission as long as they meet certain conditions — primarily that they do not protrude more than 200mm from the roof surface, they are not installed on a listed building, and they are not on a wall facing a highway.
When You Do Need Planning Permission
You will need to apply for planning permission if your property is a listed building, in a conservation area (panels on a wall or roof facing a highway may require permission), in a World Heritage Site, or in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Ground-mounted solar arrays that exceed 9 square metres also require planning permission, as do installations that would protrude more than 200mm above the roof slope. If your permitted development rights have been removed (sometimes the case with newer estates or properties with specific planning conditions), you will also need to apply.
Flats and Maisonettes
If you live in a flat or maisonette, the permitted development rules do not apply in the same way. You will generally need planning permission for solar panels, and you will also need the consent of the building's freeholder or management company. Stand-alone solar panel installations on the grounds of a flat (if applicable) are treated as ground-mounted systems and may require permission if over 9 square metres.
Commercial Properties
Commercial solar installations also benefit from permitted development rights in many cases, but the rules differ from residential. Roof-mounted panels on commercial buildings generally do not need planning permission provided they do not exceed the highest part of the roof (excluding the chimney) and are not on a listed building. Ground-mounted commercial arrays often require full planning permission depending on scale and location. For larger commercial projects, we recommend checking with your local planning authority early in the process.
Building Regulations and DNO Notification
Even when planning permission is not required, solar installations must comply with building regulations. Your installer must notify building control of the installation, though MCS-accredited installers like GM Electrical Services can self-certify compliance through the Competent Person Scheme. You also need to notify your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) before connecting solar panels to the grid — systems up to 3.68kW per phase use the simpler G98 notification, while larger systems require a G99 application. We handle all of this as part of our standard installation service.
We Handle the Paperwork
At GM Electrical Services, we take care of all the regulatory requirements for your solar installation. We will advise you if planning permission is needed for your specific property, submit DNO applications, self-certify building regulations compliance through our MCS accreditation, and provide all the documentation you need for your records and any future property sale. You do not need to worry about any of the paperwork — it is all included in our service.
Interested in this service?
Get a free, no-obligation quote from our expert team.