FAQ: Do Businesses Need Planning Permission For Solar Panels?

Navigating the complexities of planning permission for commercial solar panels can seem daunting, but it doesn’t need to be.

At Purelec Energy, we aim to make the transition to solar power as simple as possible for businesses across the UK. In today’s article, we’ll explore the planning permission requirements for commercial solar power.

Do Businesses Need Planning Permission for Solar Panels?

The short answer is: probably not.

In most cases, such installations fall under Permitted Development rights. These rights allow you to undertake certain types of building works, including the installation of commercial solar panels, without the need for a formal planning application – provided that they meet specific conditions.

Understanding Permitted Development

Permitted Development rights are designed to facilitate straightforward building improvements without bogging down property owners in bureaucratic processes. However, these rights are not unlimited. They balance progress with the protection of local communities and amenities, particularly around sensitive sites like historic buildings or churches.

For instance, installations near historical landmarks or within conservation areas might require additional scrutiny. Therefore, familiarising yourself with the local regulations and potential restrictions in advance is crucial. At Purelec Energy, we’re on hand to guide you through these regulations to ensure your project proceeds smoothly.

Specifics for Solar Panel Installations

Since April 2015, the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (Class J) states that most non-domestic solar installations under 1 megawatt do not require planning permission. That being said, there are some conditions to keep in mind:

• Projection from Wall or Roof: Solar panels installed on a wall or a pitched roof should not project more than 200mm from the wall surface or roof slope.
• Flat Roof Installations: When panels are installed on a flat roof, the highest part of the equipment should be no more than one metre above the highest part of the roof, excluding the chimney.
• Distance from Roof Edge: Equipment mounted on a roof must not be within one metre of the external edge of that roof.
• Distance from Wall Junction: Equipment mounted on a wall must not be within one metre of a junction of that wall with another wall or with the roof of the building.

When is Planning Permission Required?

While Permitted Development rights provide significant flexibility, there are specific situations where planning permission for solar panels is still required:

• Conservation Areas and Protected Sites: Any roof slope which fronts a highway in conservation areas, National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Broads, and World Heritage Sites typically requires planning permission. These areas are protected due to their historical, architectural, or natural significance, and additional scrutiny ensures that solar installations do not detract from their value.
• Listed Buildings: Solar panels cannot be installed on listed buildings without planning permission. Listed buildings are recognised for their special architectural or historical interest, and any alterations must be carefully managed.
• Curtilage of Listed Buildings: Buildings within the grounds of a listed building also require planning permission for solar panel installations. This ensures that the visual and historical integrity of the listed building’s surroundings is preserved.
• Scheduled Monuments: These are sites of national archaeological importance, and any modifications, including the installation of solar panels, require careful consideration and approval.
• Large Installations: Installations with a generation capacity over 1 megawatt do not fall under Permitted Development rights and require planning permission. This is to assess the potential impact on the local environment and infrastructure.

Navigating the Planning Process

If your solar installation requires planning permission, it’s essential to understand the steps involved:

• Initial Consultation: Consult with your local planning authority to understand the specific requirements and gather necessary documentation.
• Application Preparation: Prepare a detailed application, including site plans, design specifications, and impact assessments.
• Submission and Review: Submit the application for review. The local planning authority will evaluate it based on design, appearance, and potential impact on the surrounding area.
• Decision and Implementation: Once approved, you can proceed with the installation, ensuring all conditions set by the planning authority are met.