Do rooftop solar installations need planning permission?

Rooftop solar installations always need building regulations approval, but rarely require planning permission. This is because they generally fall under permitted development rights, which allow homeowners to make reasonably sized changes without getting permission.

Can a solar PV system be built in a pitched roof?

A.1 Development is not permitted by Class A if— (a) the solar PV or solar thermal equipment would protrude more than 0.2 metres beyond the plane of the wall or [F1, in the case of a pitched roof,] the roof slope when measured from the perpendicular with the external surface of the wall or [F2 pitched] roof slope;

Do I need a prior approval for a solar panel installation?

Application to determine if prior approval is required for a proposed: These provide more scope for solar panel installations on buildings (or in the curtilage of a building) and in non-domestic off-street parking areas without needing full or householder planning permission. When will you need to make a prior approval application?

Can solar panels be installed on a roof or wall?

The installation of solar panels on a roof or wall of a private house is considered to be permitted development (i.e. doesn’t require planning permission) provided that: Panels should not be installed above the ridgeline and should project no more than 200mm from the roof or wall surface on pitched roofs.

Will homeowners be able to install rooftop solar panels more easily?

Homeowners will be able to install rooftop solar panels more easily without costly planning delays. This was published under the 2022 to 2024 Sunak Conservative government Homes and businesses will be able to install rooftop solar panels more easily, under new rules announced today.

Do solar PV installations need to be in compliance with building regulations?

In one way or another solar PV installations will always need to be in compliance with the building regulation (e.g.. the safety of electrical systems and structures). We give examples of where building regulations will likely apply and need to be referred to here: Solar PV Safety and The Building Regulations.