Solar panels are becoming a familiar sight across rooftops in the UK. With rising energy costs and a push towards greener living, more homeowners are installing solar panels. But one question still causes confusion: do you need planning permission for solar panels on your home?
Most homeowners in the UK do not need planning permission for roof-mounted solar panels, thanks to permitted development rules. But there are some exceptions — especially if you live in a listed building or conservation area. Here’s everything you need to know, updated for 2025.
When You DON’T Need Planning Permission
Under Permitted Development Rights, you generally don’t need to apply for planning permission to install solar panels on your house or flat. This applies to most pitched-roof, roof-mounted systems, as long as they meet a few basic rules:
- The panels must not protrude more than 200mm from the surface of the roof or wall.
- They must not be installed above the highest part of the roof (excluding chimneys).
- The panels should be sited to minimise visual impact as far as practicable.
- If you live in a block of flats, you’ll need to check leaseholder rules or get permission from the freeholder.
From November 2023, new government regulations also allow solar panels on flat roofs to extend up to 0.6 metres above the roofline without requiring planning permission. This was introduced to make solar more accessible to a wider range of properties.
These rights are granted under Part 14, Class A of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015, and similar rules apply in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland (with minor variations).
In many cases, you can install panels without permission under permitted development rights for solar panels.
When You DO Need Planning Permission
There are situations where planning permission is required, and it’s important to check before starting work:
1. Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings
If your home is in a conservation area, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), or is a listed building, you may need planning permission or listed building consent. These areas are protected due to their special architectural or historical importance.
Even with permitted development rights, local planning authorities can restrict solar panels in these areas. Always consult your local council’s planning department or conservation officer.
2. Ground-Mounted Solar Panels
If you're installing solar panels on the ground instead of your roof, different rules apply. You can usually install one standalone system under permitted development if:
- It’s no taller than 4 metres
- It covers an area of less than 9 square metres
- It’s at least 5 metres from any boundary
Anything bigger will likely require planning permission.
3. Flats, Shared Housing and Commercial Buildings
Owners of flats or properties in shared buildings often need additional permissions, especially if the installation affects communal areas or the external appearance of the building.
For commercial or large-scale rooftop systems (e.g. schools, warehouses), planning permission may still be required depending on size and location.
Additional rules apply if you live in a protected area—read our advice on installing solar panels on listed buildings.
Do Planning Permission Rules Differ by Roof Type?
Yes, the need for planning permission can depend on the type of roof where the solar panels are being installed. Understanding these differences is key to staying compliant and avoiding delays in your project.
1. Pitched Roofs (Sloped Roofs)
- Most solar panel installations on pitched roofs do not require planning permission thanks to permitted development rights.
- However, the following conditions must be met:
- Panels must not project more than 200mm from the roof surface.
- Panels must not exceed the highest point of the roof (excluding chimneys).
- The building must not be listed or in a conservation area.
2. Flat Roofs
- These installations are more likely to need planning permission, because:
- Panels usually require angled mounting frames that exceed height limits.
- They can be more visible, affecting neighbors or the local streetscape.
- Check with your local planning authority if your installation:
- Projects more than 200mm above the roof surface.
- Involves a property in a designated area such as a conservation zone.
3. Green Roofs or Specialist Roofing
- These may also require permission, especially if the installation:
- Alters drainage, structural integrity, or appearance.
- Involves a roof that's part of a listed building.
Not all roofs are ideal for solar—find out what makes a home suitable for solar panels before you commit.
What About Building Regulations?
Planning permission and building regulations are two separate things.
Even if you don’t need planning permission, your solar installation must still comply with building regulations. This ensures the structural safety of your roof and the correct connection of your system to the electricity supply.
You should use a certified installer (e.g. someone registered under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme - MCS) who can self-certify that the work meets the regulations.
If you want to know what happens during the installation process and how building regulations fit in, check out our detailed guide on the solar panel installation guide, which walks you through each step.
Government Support and Recent Updates
The UK government has taken steps to simplify the process for homeowners. In November 2023, planning rules were eased to cover flat roofs and reduce red tape around rooftop systems.
The Future Homes Standard, coming into effect in 2025, will also require solar panels on most new homes. This reflects a wider trend toward encouraging microgeneration as part of the UK's net zero carbon goals.
You can find more detailed official guidance on the Planning Portal or through your local authority's website.
Quick Checklist for Homeowners
| Question |
|---|
| Are the panels going on your roof (not the ground)? |
| Is your home a house (not a flat or listed building)? |
| Are you outside a conservation area? |
| Will the panels sit within 200mm of the roof surface? |
| Will they avoid protruding above the roof peak? |
If you answered yes to all of these, you likely don’t need planning permission. Still, it’s wise to check with your local planning authority or installer to confirm.
Need Help with Planning Permission?
If you're unsure whether your home requires planning permission for solar panels, Solar Together can help. When you sign up for the scheme, their approved installers will assess your property and let you know if permission is needed. If it is, they’ll guide you through the process and help with the application. It is worth noting that this process is longer than the typical solar installation and the time varies, however your installer will have knowledge of the process and will be able to manage your expectations accordingly.
You can learn more about how the group-buying model works in our overview of how Solar Together works. You can also register your interest to be notified when a Solar Together scheme opens in your area—there’s no obligation, and it’s the easiest way to stay informed.
FAQs: Planning Permission for Solar Panels in the UK
As of November 2023, most flat-roof installations up to 0.6m above the roofline are allowed without planning permission, as long as they meet other criteria under Permitted Development.
You may need planning permission or additional consent. Rules vary by council, so check with your local authority.
Only with listed building consent. These installations are judged on a case-by-case basis.
Yes, all installations must meet building regulations. Use a certified installer who can self-certify compliance.
There’s no hard size limit, but rules apply to height, visual impact, and placement. Most standard residential systems comply as long as they’re roof-mounted.
Final Thoughts
In most cases, UK homeowners can install solar panels without planning permission. The rules are designed to support green energy adoption while protecting special sites like conservation areas and listed buildings.
Always double-check with your council if in doubt, and make sure your installer is certified to handle both the technical and regulatory aspects.