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Planning Permission for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems
Planning regulations have recently been relaxed when it comes to typical residential solar PV installations, such as those mounted on roofs and in ground mounted frames. However, there are restrictions connected with the size and nature of the solar PV array, exceptions are also made for properties within conservation areas and for those properties with listed status.
This is not to say that systems that do not fall into the categories below cannot be built. It simply means that planning permission will be required before work commences.
When considering mounting a solar PV array on the roof of a residential property, to not require planning permission beforehand the system designer must ensure that:
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When considering mounting a solar PV array in a ground mounted frame that will serve a residential property, to not require planning permission beforehand the designer must ensure that:
- The solar PV array is no more than 4m high
- The solar PV array is installed more than 5m from the property boundary
- The size of the solar PV array does not exceed 9m sq
- The solar PV array does not face onto or is visible from the highway if located within a conservation area or a world heritage site.
NB: The installation of solar technology is well understood and in general welcomed by local authorities. In our experience a planning application with a considered and well designed system is likely to be treated fairly.
NB: There may also be specific requirements related to local building regulations and permits. We give examples of where building regulations may need to be referred to here: Solar PV Safety and The Building Regulations.