Solar · Advice
Do I need planning permission for solar panels?
Short answer
Usually not for a house. Roof panels are normally permitted development, with limits on how far they stick out and extra rules for listed buildings, conservation areas, national parks and world heritage sites. England updated its rules on 27 August 2026. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own rules, so check your nation's guidance.
Last checked 24 September 2026 · 1 source
In more detail
- EST: houses usually permitted development; exceptions for listed buildings, conservation areas, national parks.
- England SI 2026/896: separates dwellinghouse and flat limits; pitched-roof equipment must not protrude more than 0.2 m beyond the roof slope (secondary summary); new prior-approval for some stand-alone arrays near boundaries on article 2(3) land; plug-in solar included.
- Listed buildings need listed building consent regardless.
- DNO notification (G98/G99) is separate from planning and always required.
The facts, dated
- 01England solar permitted-development changes in force — 2026-08-27
regulation · England · checked 24 September 2026 · legislation.gov.uk
Sources
- legislation.gov.uk — www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2026/896/made
Last checked: 24 September 2026