Planning guidance
Who needs to apply for planning permission?
For the majority of properties, solar panels typically fall within what are known as "permitted development rights". This means that, if a solar panel or system is more or less flush with an existing roof, the council will not ask for a planning application. However, if you live in a flat or a house divided into flats, a listed building, a National Park, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a conservation area, or an area covered by an "Article 4" direction from the local council, you may need to put in a planning application.
Whatever your circumstances, it is best to check with your local council before installing a solar system.
Planning permission may be required if the installation projects significantly beyond the roof plane where it faces a public right of way or the solar array so enlarges the roof or property that it exceeds the permitted development limit.
Solar arrays that face away from roads and footpaths are unlikely to need a planning application. Permitted development limits are explained in the DTLR's, Planning - a Guide for Householders.
Building Control
Building Control will need to be informed of the proposed changes. Unlike Planning, Building Control may charge if they decide to make a site visit. This charge varies from council to council.
