I have a south-facing garage and I'd like to install solar
panels on the roof. Would I need planning permission, or can I just
go ahead?
Prior to April 2008 you would have needed planning permission to
install solar panels on your roof, but since then, solar panels are
deemed to be "permitted development", and no longer
require planning permission. However if your property is listed you
will need listed planning permission, and there are certain
guidelines that pertain to property in a conservation area, which
must be followed. Not every Council interprets the guidelines in
the same way, and it is therefore important to check with the
Council whether you may need planning permission. These guidelines
dictate mainly that the solar panels should not be on the public
road side of the roof, and should minimise the change in appearance
of the building and area.
