Planning Permission for Renewable Energy Technologies

The General Permitted Development Order (GPDO) grants the right to carry out certain limited forms of development on the home, without the need to apply for planning permission.

The following technologies can now be installed in some residential properties without applying for planning permission. Please be aware that there are some exceptions.

Roof mounted solar photo-voltaic (pv) and solar thermal

Do not require planning permission except if:

• the panels stick out more that 200mm above the roof when installed
• you live in a conservation area or listed building

Stand alone solar pv and solar thermal

Do not require planning permission except if:

• it measures more than 4 metres in height
• it is installed less than 5 metres away from any boundary
• it has a surface area that is greater than 9 square metres
• you live in a conservation are or listed building

All solar pv and solar thermal equipment, so far as practicably possible, must be sited as to minimise its effect on the appearance of the building to which it is attached and on the amenity of the surrounding area.

Biomass boilers and stoves and combined heat and power (CHP)

Do not require planning permission except if:

• the flue extends more than 1 metre above the height of the roof
• you live in a conservation area or listed building

Ground source heat pumps

Do not require planning permission

Water source heat pumps

Do not require planning permission

Renewable technologies that do require planning permission.

You still need to apply for planning permission to install the following forms or renewable technology:

• micro wind turbines
• air source heat pumps

We would always recommend that you contact |Planning Services before installing any of the above renewable technologies.

Further information:

|Greener Homes & Micro-generation - Guidance for householders; providing advice on planning and building regulation matters for green energy projects and energy saving.
|The Energy Saving Trust - is a non-profit organisation that provides free impartial advice about generating your own energy.