Do I need planning permission for solar panels?
Most UK homeowners do not need planning permission for roof solar, because it falls under permitted development rights. Exceptions include listed buildings (which need listed building consent), conservation areas (where road-facing panels may need permission), flats, and panels that project too far from the roof. Always confirm with your local planning authority.
When permitted development applies
- Panels do not protrude more than 200mm from the roof slope.
- They are not fitted above the highest part of the roof (excluding the chimney).
- The property is not listed and not a flat.
- For conservation areas, panels are not on a wall or roof facing a highway.
When you should check
Listed buildings, conservation areas, flats and ground-mounted arrays are the main cases needing approval. Rules also differ slightly across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, so a quick check with your council avoids surprises. A good installer will flag this at survey.
Frequently asked questions
- Do battery storage systems need planning permission?
- Indoor home batteries generally do not. Large external units may, so check if siting one outside.
- Does ground-mounted solar need permission?
- Small domestic arrays may not, but larger ones usually do. Confirm with your local planning authority.
Related questions
Indicative estimates based on UK average data. Last updated 27 May 2026.