Legal And Planning Permissions Associated With A Solar Panel System In The UK

Normally you would not need any permission to install solar panels on your roof. Especially when these are installed in an off grid scenario and or you use the grid as a backup only. For the second solar architecture you would need a so called export limitation package installed.  The same applies to hiring a certified solar installer. There is no need for a such qualified person or contractor. Majority of the work can be done by any DIY person and connecting to your main board you can have a certified electrician doing it.

With all that said here are some general rules that apply for solar installations in the United Kingdom.

Solar Panel planning for England and Wales

In England and Wales, the domestic installation of mounted solar panels is likely to be considered ‘permitted development’, meaning that there is no need to apply to the council for planning permission. The following conditions must be met, however:

• Solar panels must not be installed above the highest part of the roof (excl. the chimney)
• Panels should protrude no more than 20cm from the surface on which they are installed (roof slope/wall facing)
• The solar panels should be installed, so far as is practicable, to minimise the aesthetic impact upon the building’s exterior
• Panels must not be installed on a property located within the grounds of a listed building

There are important exceptions to the permitted development rule, such as if your property is listed or located in a conservation area. It is advisable to check with your local planning officer if your property falls into these categories. In all the other cases you are free to install your panels.

Solar Panel planning for Scotland

In Scotland the following conditions must be met:

• Panels must not be installed above the highest point of the roof (excluding the chimney)
• If installed on a flat roof, panels must be situated at least 1 meter from the edge of the roof and must not protrude more than 1 meter from the roof’s surface
• If the property is located in a World Heritage Site or conservation area, solar equipment should not be mounted on a roof which forms the front face of the building/the side of building visible from a public road

Solar panels and your insurance provider

Before installing PV technology, it is necessary to contact your home insurance provider in order to ensure that the installation will be covered by your policy (including both theft of and damage to the array). More on this here

Solar Panels and your Mortgage provider.

It is also advisable to discuss your plans to install a PV system with your mortgage provider.

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