Planning
Find out when solar panels need planning permission and when permitted development rights apply.
Most solar panel installations on homes in England can use Permitted Development Rights. Therefore, you often do not need a full planning application.
However, some properties face extra restrictions. These include listed buildings, conservation areas, World Heritage Sites and scheduled monuments. Ground-mounted solar also has separate rules.
The rules changed on 27 August 2026. A one-year transition period now applies. Until 26 August 2027, some installations can still follow the previous rules where the new rules would no longer allow permitted development.
Roof-mounted solar panels
Solar PV on a pitched roof can usually qualify as permitted development. The panels must not project more than 200mm beyond the roof slope. They also cannot sit higher than the highest part of the roof, excluding the chimney.
Flat-roof solar panels
Panels on a flat roof can also qualify. The highest part of the equipment must sit no more than 600mm above the roof. Measure this from the highest part of the roof, excluding the chimney.
Standard residential properties
You can usually install solar panels under permitted development when you meet the national limits and conditions. However, your property location can introduce extra restrictions.
Listed buildings and scheduled monuments
Permitted development does not cover solar equipment on a listed building or a building within its grounds. It also excludes solar equipment on a scheduled monument site. Check with your local planning authority before installing panels. You may also need separate listed building consent.
Conservation areas and World Heritage Sites
Extra restrictions apply in these areas. For example, solar equipment on a wall, balcony or roof enclosure may not qualify when it fronts a highway. Check the rules for your property before starting work.
Ground-mounted solar panels
Stand-alone solar has separate limits. Generally, you can have one stand-alone installation under permitted development.
The array must meet several conditions. It cannot exceed 9 square metres. Its maximum width and depth cannot exceed 3 metres. It must also stay below 4 metres high and meet the required boundary restrictions. Additional rules apply in conservation areas, World Heritage Sites and around protected properties.
Other factors can affect your project. These include local planning restrictions, leasehold agreements and the specific design of your property.
So, check before work begins. Your local planning authority can confirm whether your proposed solar PV installation qualifies as permitted development. You can also apply for a Lawful Development Certificate if you want formal confirmation that planning permission is not required.