Planning Permission for Solar Panels, Heat Pumps, and EV Chargers: What You Need to Know

One of the most common questions we get is "do I need planning permission?" The short answer for most homeowners is no. But there are exceptions worth knowing about.

Solar panels

Usually permitted development (no planning needed) if:

• Panels don't protrude more than 200mm from the roof surface
• They don't extend above the highest part of the roof (excluding the chimney)


• The property isn't a listed building


• You're not in a conservation area, World Heritage Site, or AONB (front-facing restriction only)

You will need planning if:

• It's a listed building (listed building consent required)
• Panels are on a wall facing a highway


• Ground-mounted panels exceed 4m in height or 9m2 in area


• You're in a conservation area and want panels on a principal elevation or facing a highway

Even in conservation areas, rear-facing and side-facing panels are usually fine. Your installer will check during the survey process.

Heat pumps

Usually permitted development if:

• It's an air source heat pump (not ground source - those need separate consideration)
• The unit is at least 1 metre from the property boundary


• It meets the MCS 020 noise standard (42 dB at nearest neighbour window)


• Only one unit per property


• Not on a listed building

You will need planning if:

• It's a listed building
• You want to install it on a wall or roof facing a highway in a conservation area


• The unit exceeds permitted development noise limits at the boundary


• You want multiple units

Ground source heat pumps involving boreholes may need planning depending on depth and location. Horizontal ground loops under your own garden typically don't.

For more on heat pump types and their installation requirements, see our ASHP vs GSHP comparison.

EV chargers

Usually permitted development if:

• The charger doesn't face a highway in a conservation area
• Installation meets current electrical regulations (Part P)


• The charger unit doesn't exceed 0.2m3 in size

EV chargers are among the least restricted green upgrades. Our EV charger installation guide covers the full process.

The practical approach

For most homeowners in standard properties, none of these upgrades need planning permission. But it's always worth:

1. Checking with your local planning authority if you're unsure
2. Using an MCS-certified installer who knows the rules


3. Keeping documentation in case of future queries

If you're ready to get started, compare quotes for solar, heat pumps, or EV chargers. Reputable installers check planning requirements as standard.