The UK’s permitted development rules for solar panels
The vast majority of solar panel installations in the UK can go ahead without planning permission delays, thanks to permitted development rights.
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The permitted development rule allows certain types of work to be carried out without applying for formal permission, so long as basic limits and conditions are met.
Save up to £800 a year
Installing solar panels can drastically reduce your electricity bills – and your reliance on the grid.
As solar panels are classed as permitted development in most cases, you won’t need planning permission for the installation, meaning you can have them put in without dealing with any red tape from the local council.
This applies to roof-mounted and wall-mounted panels on houses and flats, provided the installation meets several requirements — such as not exceeding a certain height or projecting too far from the roofline.
Permitted development rights apply across England, Scotland, and Wales.
If you live in Northern Ireland, planning permission is more likely to be required, and it's best to check with your local authority or speak with a trusted local installer.
In short, most UK homeowners shouldn't expect any unnecessary headaches stemming from planning issues when they decide to switch to solar.
This means you can start saving hundreds of pounds on your energy bills every year even sooner.
When planning permission for solar panels might be required
While most UK homes won’t need planning permission to begin their solar journey, there are a few scenarios where you might need to apply to the local council.
You may need permission if:
- Your home is a listed building, or located in a conservation area, national park, or World Heritage Site
- You’re installing ground-mounted panels (especially large arrays)
- Your panels will extend more than 200 mm from the roof surface
- The panels will be installed on a flat roof, which may require additional height or framing
- The installation would exceed the highest point of the roof (excluding chimneys)
In these cases, planning permission is not always refused — but you will need to apply before installation. Most installers can guide you or manage the process for you.
If you live in Northern Ireland, planning permission is generally required for all domestic solar panel installations — though small-scale systems are usually approved. Always check with your local authority or planning portal to confirm.
How the permitted development rules speed up installation
Thanks to the permitted development rules, the entire solar installation process from receiving quotes to setting up a Smart Export Guarantee (the scheme that pays you for energy exported back to the grid) account can be handled in a few short weeks.
Here’s what the installation journey usually looks like:
- Weeks 1–2: Initial consultation, site survey and system design
- Weeks 3–4: Planning permission checks, informing the electricity network operator, and any final business before installation.
- Weeks 5–6: Installation of panels, inverter, wiring and monitoring equipment, followed by testing and issuance of certification.
- Weeks 7–8: SEG application submitted and export account is activated. When payments will arrive will depend on who you've signed up to export energy with.
We can make the switch to solar even more straightforward
While permitted development allows for a fast installation process, we can make the journey even smoother by cutting out the legwork and connecting you with trusted local solar panel installers.
Our service is free and non-binding, meaning you don't have to commit to any offers you receive.
It only takes a couple of minutes to fill out our form with your details and solar needs.
Consumer organisation Which? recommends getting quotes from three different providers before moving forward with the solution that's best for you.
Frequently asked questions
How much do solar panels cost?
Solar panel systems typically cost £4,000-£8,000 for most homes.
The exact price depends on your roof size and energy needs.
Larger systems cost more but save you more money. 0 VAT on installation until 2027 helps reduce costs, and some homes may be eligible for government grants and funding.
How much can I save with solar panels?
Most homeowners save £300-£800 per year on electricity bills.
The exact savings depend on your current energy usage and how much sun your roof gets.
You'll typically recover your investment within 8-12 years, then enjoy free electricity for decades.
Do solar panels work in winter?
Yes, solar panels work all year round. They produce less electricity in winter due to shorter days and lower sun. But they still generate useful amounts even on cloudy days.
Solar panels actually work more efficiently in cooler temperatures, so winter isn't a complete write-off.
What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?
The SEG pays you for the excess electricity your panels send back to the grid.
You get paid for every unit of surplus energy you don't use in your home and rates vary between energy suppliers.
This creates an additional income stream on top of your bill savings - many homeowners earn £100-£300 per year.
Will solar panels work on my roof?
Most UK roofs are suitable for solar panels. Your roof should face south, east, or west for optimal results.
North-facing roofs can work, but generate less energy. A free survey will determine if your roof is suitable and calculate your potential savings.
About Solarenergy.co.uk
We're a service that helps UK households find the right solar panel solution. Our experienced team makes it easy to obtain offers from multiple qualified installers.
Save time researching suppliers yourself — we bring installers directly to you, so you can choose the solution that's best for your home.
