Your feedback matters
Want to learn everything about Webflow? Download our free eBook today.
.svg){kind=small}
Do I need permission for solar panels in a conservation area
Installing solar panels on your roof will often fall under permitted development rights, meaning an application for planning permission is not required provided certain limits and conditions are met.
The limits and conditions vary based on the type of roof you want to install the solar panels on and the location of the house. See the details below:
· On a pitched roof, panels should not be installed above the highest part of the roof (excluding the chimney) and should project no more than 200mm from the roof slope or wall surface.
· On a flat roof the highest part of the solar PV equipment cannot be more than 600mm higher than the highest part of the roof(excluding chimney).
· The panels must not be installed on a building that is within the grounds of a listed building or on a site designated as a scheduled monument.
· If your property is in a conservation area, or in a World Heritage Site, panels must not be fitted to a wall which fronts a highway.
As you have stated you’re in a conservation area, you must apply to the local authority for prior approval. This process includes submitting a form to the local planning authority which ensures that you meet the limits set out in legislation.
Forms relating to prior approval for mounting solar equipment can be submitted through the Planning Portal’s online application service and attract a fee of £240.
Visit our solar common projects page for more details and to explore similar permissions.
Common Questions
You can usually put up new fences, gates or garden walls without planning permission, as long as you stay within permitted height limits. If the structure is adjacent to a highway (including footpaths), it must not exceed one metre in height. For all other boundaries, the maximum permitted height is two metres. Anything taller than these limits will require planning permission.
Replacing the window within a bay window is treated the same as any other window. Meaning that the replacement of windows which have a similar appearance to those previously used would not require an application for planning permission.
Repairs, maintenance and minor improvements will also not require an application.
If you live in a listed building or a designated area then different rules may apply.
For more details on replacing windows, visit our common projects section.
A roof window (or skylight) is fitted flush within the slope of a roof, while a dormer projects outward, creating additional headroom and floor space.
Both can be installed under permitted development but must meet specific size and position limits to qualify.
Also consider building regulations for a new dormer, find out more on Planning Portal
You will often not require planning permission to fit a log burner. If you are adding a new external flue or chimney then different rules will apply.
If you live in a listed building you will require listed building consent.
The installation of a log burner must comply with building regulations. It is recommended that you use a HETAS-registered installer who can certify the work. Visit the HETAS website to search for an installer.
Read more information around fitting an external flue or chimney in our common projects section.
Adding air conditioning to your home may be considered permitted development provided all the limits and conditions set out in legislation are met. The limits set out the function, size, placement and quantity of air conditioning units allowed.
The rights only apply if the system provides a heating function (including if it can provide both heating and cooling). If the system only offers a cooling function, then the rights do not apply and an application for planning permission will be required.
If your home is in a protected area such as a Conservation Area then permission will be required. If you live in a listed building then consent will be required.
The installation of air conditioning must comply with building regulations. It is advisable to contact an installer who can provide the necessary advice, preferably one who belongs to either the Microgeneration Certification Scheme or the relevant Competent Person Scheme.
For more information on air conditioning, read our heat pumps common project.
