Planning Permission For Commercial Solar Panels
- elliebrear
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Commercial solar panel installations are becoming an increasingly attractive option for UK businesses seeking to reduce energy costs, cut carbon emissions, and improve sustainability credentials. While many projects fall under permitted development rights, there are specific rules, exceptions, and procedures that business owners must understand before proceeding.
This guide explains the UK planning permission requirements for commercial solar panels, covering permitted development rules, when you need formal approval, and related compliance considerations.
Do You Need Planning Permission for Commercial Solar Panels?
In most cases, commercial solar panels in the UK do not require full planning permission thanks to permitted development rights. However, certain conditions apply to ensure that installations do not negatively impact building aesthetics, heritage sites, or the environment.
What Are Permitted Development Rights for Commercial Solar Panels?
In most cases, solar panels on commercial properties do not require full planning permission thanks to permitted development rules under UK planning law.
However, these rights come with strict conditions:
Location & Visual Impact: Panels should be positioned to minimise visual impact on the building and surrounding area.
Projection from Roof: Roof-mounted panels must not extend more than 200mm beyond the roof surface.
Height Restrictions: On flat roofs, no part of the equipment can be more than 1 metre above the highest point of the roof (excluding chimneys).
Distance from Roof Edges: Panels must be at least 1 metre from the edge of the roof or the junction of two walls/roof slopes.
Removal Requirement: Equipment must be removed promptly when no longer in use.
When Is Planning Permission Required for Commercial Solar?
Even with permitted development rights, full planning permission is needed in specific scenarios:
Listed Buildings: Any installation on or within the grounds of a listed building requires planning permission and possibly listed building consent.
Scheduled Monuments: Works within these protected sites always need permission.
Conservation Areas & World Heritage Sites: If panels are installed on walls visible from a public road, permission is required.
Designated Land (Article 2(3) Land): Special rules apply, particularly for panels facing a highway.
Large-Scale Rooftop Installations: In Scotland, systems over 50kW require permission; in England & Wales, past thresholds have changed, so always check current local rules.
Ground-Mounted Systems: Anything over 9m² usually needs full planning consent.
Understanding the Prior Approval Process (56-Day Notice)
Even without full planning permission, certain commercial solar projects require Prior Approval from the Local Planning Authority (LPA):
Applies to rooftop systems beyond just panels and brackets.
Allows LPAs to assess visual and environmental impacts.
May be triggered for systems exceeding certain power capacities (e.g., 50kW in England and Wales).
Best Practices for a Smooth Planning Process
Consult Your Local Planning Authority: They can confirm whether your project qualifies under permitted development.
Leaseholder Permissions: Approval from landlords, freeholders, or management companies may be necessary.
Building Regulations: Compliance with structural safety, electrical safety, and fire safety standards is mandatory.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): Required for large-scale or environmentally sensitive installations.
Grid Connection Approval: All grid-connected systems must be approved by the Distribution Network Operator (DNO).
Engage a Specialist Installer: A qualified contractor can design a compliant system and handle all regulatory paperwork.
Planning permission for commercial solar panels in the UK is generally straightforward, but it’s crucial to understand permitted development rules, exceptions, and related compliance steps. By engaging early with your LPA and a qualified installer, you can avoid delays and ensure a smooth installation process.
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