PP: Roof or Wall Mounted Solar Panels

The following limits apply to roof and wall mounted solar panels:

• Panels should not be installed above the ridgeline and should project no more than 200mm from the roof or wall surface.
• If your property is a listed building installation is likely to require an application for listed building consent, even where planning permission is not needed.
• If your property is in a conservation area, or in a World Heritage Site planning consent is required when panels are to be fitted on the principal or side elevation walls and they are visible from the highway. If panels are to be fitted to a building in your garden or grounds they should not be visible from the highway.

All solar installations are also subject to the following conditions:

• Panels on a building should be sited, so far as is practicable, to minimise the effect on the appearance of the building.
• They should be sited, so far as is practicable, to minimise the effect on the amenity of the area.
• When no longer needed for microgeneration they should be removed as soon as possible.

These permitted development rights apply to houses. If you live in a flat and are considering fitting solar panels you are advised to contact your LPA for guidance.